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THE 



LIFE AND TIMES 



GEORGE WASHINGTON. 



BY 



SAMUEL M. SCHMUCKER, LL. D., 

Avthor of "Public and Private History of Napoleoa III., "Life and Tint* 

of Alexander HamiltOQ," "Life and Times of Thomas Jeffersoa," 

"History of the Four Georges," etc. 



PHILADELPHIA: 
JOHN E. POTTER AND COMPANY, 

617 Sansom Street. 







■attrad, •ooording to the Act of Congress, in the yewr 1869, Irr 

SAMUEL M. SCHMDCKKB, 

m tlie Clerk's Office of the District Court of the United States for the Eastern DlftrM 
of Pennsylyania. 



•rauOTItW MI J. FAOi*. 




3 - IVIAR .1 8 

IMr^ V^^ 



PREFACE. 



The life and achievements of George Washington 
have already been described by so many able and 

- accomplished biographers, that it might be deemed 

- superfluous in any other writer to attempt the same 
_ task, or to add to the large number of works now- 
existing on the subject. It is true, indeed, that the 
records of Washington's career which have been 
published, have in a great measure exhausted the 
subject, so far as the discovery and accumulation of 
facts in reference to him are concerned ; nor does the 
present writer presume to have made any researches 
which have brought to light details and incidents 
which were not previously known. 

Nevertheless, it has been thought that the want 
still existed in our literature of a concise and con- 
densed narrative of Washington's career, which would 
be suitable to the popular reader; for whose use the 
more aspiring style and ponderous bulk of other 
works on the same subject were not so well adapted. 
It was to supply this supposed necessity, that the 
present volume has been written. In preparing it the 

(iii) 



IV PREFACE. 

author has made a careful selection of the more im- 
portant events connected with the public and private 
career of this illustrious man ; and has narrated them 
in plain and simple language, a^^ I}eing best adapted 
to the purpose for vs'hich the volume was intended. 

It had been useless on the part of the present 
writer, to have attempted an elaborate and extensive 
work upon a theme which has already been depicted 
by several of the master-minds of the age, with every 
charm of genius, and M'ith every characteristic of 
ability. He has therefore contented himself with 
endeavoring to portray the subject in an unassuming, 
though, as he hopes, an accurate and reliable manner; 
at the same time making use of the most authentic 
and authoritative sources of information having refer- 
ence to it. Whatever imperfections may exist in the 
work, will be amply atoned for by the superior interest 
and dignity of the subject; for the life and public 
services of "Washington constitute one of those im- 
mortal taeraes, which no lapse of time or vicissitude 
of human afiairs can deprive of their resistless hold 
uprn the attention and admiration of mankind. 



CONTENTS. 



CHAPTER I. 
Genealogy of the Washington Family — Birth of George Washington— Deatli 
cf his Father — Influence of his Mother — His Education — His Early Pro- 
mise and Youthful Characteristics paoe li 

CHAPTER II 

L:;arence Washington — The Fairfax Family — George Washington s desire 
for a Military Life — His Mother withdraws her Consent to his entering 
the Navy — Return to School, and Application to Mathematics — His Pro- 
ficiency in Surveying — Falls in Love, and grows Melancholy — His Asso- 
ciation with the Fairfax Family, and its Beneficial Effects — Hunting com- 
pletes the Cure — His Survey of Lord Fairfax's Domains — His Appoint- 
ment as Public Surveyor — The Perils of the Wilderness — The Bracing 
Effects of his Duties, Physically and Mentally — Qreenway Court — Influ- 
ence of Hardy Toil and Qood Society Combined 21 

CHAPTER IIL 

french and English Disputes respecting the Valley of the Ohio — Grounds 
of their several Claims — The Ohio Company — Laurence Washington — His 
Liberal Policy — French Competition — De Bienville — His Plans — Christo- 
pher Gist, the Pioneer — His Expedition to the Frontier, and Operations 
with the Indian Tribes — His Negotiations, and their Success — His Return 
— The Attempt of loncaire — His 111 Success at Log-Town, and Letter to 
the Governor of Pennsylvania — The Indian Territories 32 

CHAPTER IV. 
Hostile Preparations of the English and French — Washington appointed an 
Adjutant-General — Mount Vernon becomes a School of Arms — HI Health 
of his Brother Laurence — Ho accompanies him to Barbadoes — Laurence 
Washington proceeds to Bermuda — He returns to die at Mount Vernon 
— New Duties devolving on George Washington — The Ohio Tribes at Log- 
Town —Hostility of the Six Nations — Tanacharisson before the French 
Commandant — His Speech, and the Frenchman's Reply — French Inten- 
tions — Efforts of the Ohio Company — Captain Trent appointed on the 
Western Mission by Governor Dinwiddle — His 111 Success, and Return — 
Washington appointed to Succeed Him — Sets out in November, 1753.. 40 
1* (V) 



VI CONTENTS. 

CHAPTER V. 

Washington's Journey to the Ohio — Adventures and Observations on the 
Monongahela — His Companions — Log-Town anl the Sachems — Indian 
Diplomacy — loncaire — Arrival at Venango — The Results of Conviviality 
— The Wampum — La Force, the Commissary — Chevalier Legardeur — 
Affairs at the Fort — Efforts to Seduce the Sachems from their English 
Alliance — Trying Delays — DiflBcult Navigation of French Creek — Wash- 
ington arrives at Venango — The Half-King's Faith in his English Bro- 
thers — The Homeward Route — Its Difficulties 46 

CHAPTER VI. 

Perils in the Wilderness — Murdering-Town — Indian Treachery — A Night of 
Great Anxiety — Fearful Danger on the Allegheny — Fortunate Escape — 
Queen Aliquippa, the Watch-Coat, and the Fire-Water — Washington 
crosses the Blue Ridge — Chevalier de St. Pierre's Reply — The Mission of 
Captain Trent to Ohio — Washington raises Recruits — Dinwiddie finds the 
Virginians growing difficult to govern — His Efforts to raise Recruits — 
Captain Van Braam — Trials in Transportation — Contrecoeur at the Fork 
of the Ohio 54 

CHAPTER VII. 

The March to "Little Meadows" — Correspondence with Dinwiddie »nd 
Lord Fairfax — The Disinterested Views of Washington — French Emis'sa- 
rics — Message from the Sachem — The Great Meadows, and Skirmish -wUh 
Jumonville — Its Results — AVashington's First Battle — Scarcity of Prcvi- 
sions — Death of Colonel Fry, and Promotions — Captain Maekey and the 
Independent Company — Prayers in Camp — Fight at Great Meadows, and 
Surrender of Fort Necessity — Thanks voted by the House of Burgesse« 
to the Troops — Exceptions made, and Reasons for them — End of Wash- 
ington's First Campaign 61 

CHAPTER VIIL 

Governor Dinwiddie and his Views of the War — Difficulties with the Assem- 
bly — Grants from England, and Changes in the Army — Washington 
throws up his Commission — His Retirement to Mount Vernon — War be 
tween the English and French — British Plan of the Campaign — GeneraJ 
Braddock appointed Commander — Commodore Keppel and his Squadron 
— The Effect of Warlike Preparations on Washington — He joins the Staff 
of Braddock — His Flattering Reception, and Appreciation by the Gover- 
nors in Congress — Preparations for the Expedition — Meeting of Officers 
at Alexandria— Sir John St. Clair and his Threats— Their Effects — George 
Crogan and his Influence — Captain Jack 72 



CONTENTS, VU 



CHAPTER IX. 



(P^neral Braddock — His DiflSculties about Means of Transportation — As- 
eisted by Benjamin Franklin — Dr. Hugli Mercer — Captain Gates — The 
Roads — Sir John St. Clair — Patriotism of Washington — He is seized with 
a Violent Fever — He recovers — Reaches the Camp — Plan of Attack on 
Fort Duquesne — Washington's Advice — Blind Obstinacy of Braddock — 
Ruinous Consequences — Dunbar — Defeat and Death of Oeneral Braddock 
— The Aggravated Disgrace — Exultation of Contrecoeur. 80 



CHAPTER X. 

Washington in Command — Indian Ravages — Panic at Winchester — The 
Savages return to the Ohio — The Fate of the Expeditions against 
Niagara and Crown Point — Military Precedence — The Decision of 
General Shirley — Earl of Loudoun — Dangers at Greenway Court — 
— Great Alarms at Winchester — Tender Sympathies of Washington — 
lUiberality of the Virginia Press — Its Effects — Appreciation of Wash- 
ington by the Speaker of the House of Burgesses — Parsimony of 
the Assemblies — Washington's Advice about the Forts — Great ineflS- 
ciency of the Military — Dinwiddle's Ambiguity — Fall of the Fort at 
Oswego 90 



CHAPTER XI. 

Binwiddie and Lord Loudoun — Washington's Relations with them — His Ad- 
vice respecting the Reduction of Fort Duquesne — Failure of the Expedi- 
tion against Crown Point — Washington's 111 Health — He recovers, and 
resumes Command — Expeditions in the North — Expedition against Fort 
Duquesne — Washington's First Interview with Mrs. Custis — His Opinion 
and Advice respecting the Line of March — Fort Duquesne — The Engage- 
ment — Colonel Bosquet — Washington plants the English Standard on the 
Ruins of the Fort — His Marriage with Mrs. Custis 10ft 



CHAPTER XIL 

Washington in the House of Burgesses — His Residence at Mount Vernon — 
A Description of his Character — Enjoyments and Pursuits in Rural Life 
— Washington's Industry — He explores the Dismal Swamp — Courtly 
Habits in the Old Dominion — Washington the Model of a Virginia Gen- 
tleman , 109 



nil CONTENTS. 

CHAPTER XIII. 

Cku<:e» Icadini; to the Amorican Revolution — Restrictiong on Commerce and 
Manuftioture* — The Riirht to tax America, and other Orierance.o — The 
Stamp Act — Speech of Patrick Henry— Repeal of the Stamp Act— The 
Offensire Clause retained — The Equanimity of Washington— Lord Bote- 
tourt, his Character, and Death — The Henoral Court of Boston— WKshinj;. 
ton makes a Tour to the Ohio — His Affliction on the Death of Miss Custis 
— Difficulties as the Guardian of John Parke Custis — Earl of Duumore 
Gorernor of Virginia — The Tea thrown into the Sea at Boston — Boston 
Port Bill — Washington as Chairman and Delegate — His Enthusiastic Pft- 
triotism — Aflfairs in Boston, and Embarrassment of General Gage 115 

CHAPTER XIV. 

First Continental Congress in Philadelphia — Its Proceedings- Washington 
at Mount Vernon — Generals Putnam and Lee in Boston — Their Antece- 
dents — Major Gates and the Visitors at Mount Vernon — Le*'s Fondness 
for singular Pet* — Washington a Delegate to the Richmond Conrention — 
Speech of Patrick Henry — Washington's Conrictions corroborated — Bat- 
tles of Lexington and Concord — The War begun — Views of Washing- 
ton ^ 12« 

CHAPTER XV. 

Ktban Allen and the Green Mountain Boys — Benedict Arnold — Capture of 
Ticonderoga and Crown Point — Canada opened to the Patriots — The 
Second Congress appoints Washington Commander-in-Chief of the Con- 
tinental Army — His Remarks on the Occasion — He selects his Generals 
and Officers — British Reinforcements under Howe — Burgoyno and Clin- 
ton — Seiiure of the Heights of Charlestown — Breed's Hill and Bunker 
Hill — FortiticatioDS — Surprise of General Gage — The Battle of Bunker 
Hill— Its Results 135 

CHAPTER XVL 

Washington's Jonmey to the Army — Its Condition and Deficiency in Pow- 
der. Clothing, and Intrenching Tools — The Forces of the Enemy, their 
Position, superior Discipline, and Equipments — General Greene — The 
Commander-in-Chief enforces strict Discipline — His Establishment at 
Head-quart-ers — Great Anxiety in consequence of the want of Powder — 
Writes for a Supply to Ticonderoga and the Jerseys — Bold Project — Cor- 
respondence with General Gage — Its Effects — Description of Events trans- 
piring at a Distance from Head-qnart«rs — Rivalry of Arnold and Allen — 
Projects for the Possession of Ca^ ada 147 



CONTENTS. IX 

CHAPTER XVII. 

Benedict Arnold — His Amtition — Throws up bis Commission — General 
Schuyler attempts the Conquest of Canada — His Correspondence with 
Washington — State of Canada — Schuyler makes a Treaty with the Six 
Nations at Albany — General Montgon)ery in Command — Indinns in Ciiinp 
at Cambridge — Montgomery and Schuyler on the Way to St. John's — 
Affairs in Boston — Operations in both Camps — Expedition intrusted ti. 
Arnold — Attack on St. John's abandoned — Capture of Ethan Allen — Mont- 
gomery in Command — Gallant Conduct of Arnold and his Men — Treason 
in the Camp — Falmouth Burnt — Capture of Chamblee — St. John's Capitu- 
lates — Arnold and his Troops reach Quebec — Their Intense Sufferings. 156 

CHAPTER XVIII. 

Capture of Montreal and Escape of Carleton — Home Sickness and Insubor- 
dination — Mrs. Washington in the Camp — Arnold plants his Flag on the 
Heights of Abraham — His junction with Montgomery at Point-aux-Trem- 
bles — Their Attack on Quebec — Gallant Conduct and Death of Montgo- 
mery — Bravery of Arnold — He fortifies his Position and continues the 
Blockade of Quebec — Lord Dunmore in Virginia — Lee's Policy — Trials of 
Washington — Want of Patriotism in the Soldiers — General Greenes In- 
fluence 173 

CHAPTER XIX. 

Condition of th'* Army — Knox brings Ammunition — Lee sent to New Yoik 
to prepare Defences and fortify the Hudson — Takes the Command in 
Canada — British Theatricals — Washington's Anxiety — Preparation to 
take Dorchester Heights — The Heights Captured, and Surprise of the 
British — Their Preparations for Embarkation from Boston — Washington 
enters Boston in Triumph — Congress passes a Vote of Thanks to Wash- 
ington, and a Gold Medal is struck, representing him as the Deliverer of 
the City — Destination of the British Fleet — The Service divided into two 
Departments by Congress — General Lee appointed to the South — General 
Thomas to Canada — Putnam commands New York — General Greene in 
command at Long Island and Brooklyn 183 

CHAPTER XX. 

The Defence of New York and the Hudson — Disastrous News from Canada — 
Washington's Appearance in Congress — Its Important Consequences — 
The American Forces compelled to retire from Canada — A Consjuracy, and 
its Suppression — The Declaration of Independence — The British Forces in 
the Vicinity of New York — On Staten Island — In the Hudson — Disputed 
Question of Command between Gates and Schuyler — The British Forced 



X CONTENTS. 

to give up toeir Attempt on Charleston — The Success c£ General Lee and 
Colonel Moultrie — Washington commends the Behavior of the American 
Troops 193 

CHAPTER XXI. 

Advice of Colonel Reed — Arrival of Foreign Troops to aid the British — 
Sectional Differences of the Americans, and how Washington treated 
them — Illness of General Greene — Preparations for Action on both Sides 
— The Unguarded Pass — The Midnight March — The Battle of Long 
Island — Defeat of the Americans — Washington's Distress — The Retreat 
from Long Island — Lord Howe and the American Commissioners.... 208 

CHAPTER XXIL 

Need of a Standing Army — New York evacuated by the Ameri'-ans — The 
British in New York — Successful Skirmish, and its Effects — The Army 
put on a New Footing — Battle on Chatterton's Hill — The British 
take Fort Washington — Intelligence from the North — Fort Lea 
abandoned — Washington at Hackensack — General Lee's Tardiness 
— The Movements of Washington — He reaches Trenton — Proclama- 
tion of Lord Howe and his Brother — Washington crosses the Dela- 
ware — Philadelphia in Danger — Washington's Appeal to Lee — The 
Capture of that General — Washington appointed Military Dictator.... 221 

CHAPTER XXIIL 

Washington reinforced — Gates refuses to co-operate — Plan of Attack on 
Trenton — Passage of the Delaware — Battle of Trenton — Capture of the 
Hessians — The Troops receive a Bounty, and remain — General Howe 
surprised — He sends CornwalUs to New Jersey — Cornwallis at the Assun- 
pink — His Confidence of Success — Masterly Movements of Washington — 
Cornwallis out-generalled — Battle of Princeton — Death of General Mer- 
cer — Effects of the Battle — Increasing Reputation of Washington in con- 
sequence of these Victories 245 

CHAPTER XXIV. 

Washington's Proclamation — Correspondence with General Howe — 111 
Treatment of American Prisoners — Washington's Perplexity respecting 
the British Fleet — Lafayette's First Meeting with Washington — March of 
the American Army through Philadelphia — The British at the Head of 
the Elk — Washington on the Heights at Chadd's Ford — Battle of the 
Brandywine — Its Incidents — The British in Philadelphia — Bold Scheme 
of Washington — He attacks the British at Germantown — Battle of Ger- 
mantown — Its Results 25i 



CONTENT.*. 



CHAPTER XXV. 

Ihe American Camp atWhHe Marsh — Winter Encampment at Valley Forge 
— Spurious Letters — Origin, Development, and Conclusion of the Conway 
Cabal — The Loyalty of Lafayette — The Magnanimity of Washington- 
Reliance of the General on the God of Armies — An Affecting Incident. 274 

CHAPTER XXVI. 

Bufferings of the Army at Valley Forge — Baron Steuben — Treaty with 
France — "Conciliatory Billa" of Lord North — Sir William Howe suc- 
ceeded by Sir Henry Clinton — Peace Commissioners — Their Reception 
and Departure — The British evacuate Philadelphia — Their March 
through the Jerseys — Battle of Monmouth — Conduct and Court-Martial 
of General Lee — Arrival of the Count d'Estaing — Operations of the Allies 
against Newport — Its Failure, and the Result — Campaign of 1779 — The 
Massacre of Wyoming avenged — Arrival of the French Fleet under De 
Ternay, and Army under Count de Rochambeau 281 

CHAPTER XXVn. 

French Fleet blockaded — Interview between the Commanders — Its Result 
— Revolt of the Pennsylvania Line — Wise Conduct of Wayne, and Plan 
of Washington with the Jersey Line — Articles of Confederation — Battle 
of the Cowpens — Affair of M'Gowan's Ford — Proclamation of Cornwallia 
— State of Greene's Army — Retreat of Cornwallis — French Fleet in the 
Chesapeake — Washington at Newport — Operations of Lafayette — The 
Enemy at Mount Vernon — French Auxiliaries — Attack on New York 
abandoned — Robert Morris — The March of the Allies Southward — Siege 
of Yorktown — Surrender of Cornwallis 293 

CHAPTER XXVIII. 

Washington urges Preparations for another Campaign — Reasons — The New- 
burg Addresses, and Conclusion of the Matter — Views of a Peace Esta- 
blishment, and Circular Letter to Governors of States — Peace proclaimed 
Washington's Farewell Address to the Army — Affecting Scene in Part- 
ing with his Officers — Resignation of his Commission and Retirement to 
Mount Vernon — He engages in Agricultural Pursuits — Is chosen First 
President of the United States — Adoption of the Constitution — Washing- 
ton's Duties, and his Illness — He recovers — His Rules respecting Ap- 
pointments — The Funded Debt — The National Bank established — Duty 
imposed on Liquors Distilled in the United States 309 



XU CONTENTS. 

CHAPTER XXIX, 

Apportionment Bill — Differences in the Cabinet — Effects of the French Re- 
volution — Development of Parties — The Citizen Genet — His Insolence- 
Western Insurrection quelled — Treaty with Great Britain — The Excito- 
ment it produced — The President refuses to give up the Papers of In- 
struction — His Farewell Address — Retirement from OflBee — Mount Vernon 
— Danger of a War with France — Washington appointed Commander-in- 
Chief — Pacification — Rural Scenes — Last Illness and Death of Washing- 
ton 332 

CHAPTER XXX. 

Profound Impression produced by Washington's Death — Estimate of his 
Character — His Intellectual Qualities — His Military Talents — His Admin- 
istrative Abilities — His Character when regarded as a Whole — Proceeiiinga 
in Congress in Honor of his Memory — Remarks of Mr. Marshall — Reso- 
lutions — Address of the Senate — Reply of the President of the United 
States — Funeral Services at Mount Vernon 349 



APPENDIX. 
I. 

Washington's Farewell Address 363 

II, 
Statement of Mr. David C. Claypoole 393 

III, 

Report made by William Rawlo, Esq., to the Historical Society of Pennsyl- 
vania, December 16, 1825 396 

IV, 

Letter from Chief Justice Jay to Richard Peters, Esq., March 29th, 1811, 
Published in the Memoirs of the Historical Society of Pennsylvania... 399 

V. 

Extract from the "Writings of Washington" — President AVashington to 
James Madison, May 20th, 1792 — James Madison to President Wash- 
ington, June 20th, 1792 — • Mr. Madison's Draft — Hints, or Heads of 
Topics 411 



GEORGE WASHINGTON. 



CHAPTER I. 

OENEALOGY OF THE WASHINGTON FAMILY — BIRTH OF GEORGE TTASH* 
INGTON — DEATH OF HIS FATHER — INFLUENCE OF HIS MOTHER — HIS 
EDUCATION — HIS EARLY PROMISE AND YOUTHFUL CHARACTEBISTIC3. 

"When William the Conqueror devastated the terri- 
tory of England north of the Humber, for the pur- 
pose of punishing the revolt of the Northumbrians, 
the estates of the vanquished became the spoils of his 
Norman followers, and the chief dignities in Church 
and State were conferred upon them. Durham, in 
which the bones of St. Cuthbert were entombed after 
their removal from the shrine of Holy Island, on Lin- 
disfarne, became a city of great importance, and the 
see enjoyed privileges of an extraordinary character. 
The bishop appointed by the conqueror was invested 
with great power, as being more subservient to the 
purpose of William than were the proud and turbu- 
lent nobles of the period, and as creating a bulwark 
against the inroads of the Scots, whose incursions 
frequently assailed the border. The Bishop of Dur- 
ham was created a Count Palatine, the see was erected 
into a palatinate, and temporal and spiritual authority 
2 (13) 



14 THELIFEANDTIMES 

was in a large degree conferred upon the bishops of 
this diocese. In those distant times, landed property 
was held by feudal' tenure only; and abbots, bishops, 
lords, and barons, were obliged to furnish the king 
with military service. Whenever occasion rendered 
it necessary, and the banner of St. Cuthbert was un- 
furled, the feudatories of the prelate were required to 
take the field. William De Hertburn, whose surname 
was probably derived from the name of a village on 
the banks of Tees, called Hartburn, was one of the 
knights who held lands in the Palatinate of Durham. 
The first mention of this family occurs in 1183, at 
which period history declares that William De Hert- 
burn exchanged Hertburn, his manor and village, for 
those of Wessyngton, and the family thenceforth took 
the name of De Wessyngton. Mention is made in 
1264 of William Weshington, of Weshington, who 
assisted his sovereign in the unfortunate battle of 
Lewes ; and in the reign of Edward HI., the name 
of Sir Stephen De Wessjaigton occurs in the list of 
gallant knights who tried their skill in arms in the 
tournament at Dunstable. "Various members of this 
family were distinguished in the events which after- 
ward transpired, and in many scenes of glory and 
chivalry in which the Douglasses and Percys were 
conspicuous. When Henry VIII. confiscated the 
monasteries, he conferred on Laurence Washington, 
who had been Mayor of IS'orthampton, the manor of 
Sulgrave in 1538, which, with other lands, had be- 
longed to the monastery of St. Andrews. 

In 1646 Sir Henry Washington, a colonel in the 
royal army, displayed great gallantry in the defence 



OF GEORGE WASHINGTON. 16 

of Worcester; and manifested a spirit of chivalry 
and heroic resistance which has transmitted his name 
with renown to posterity. The Sulgrave family had 
ever been the adherents of the Stuart dynasty. Among 
the emigrants to the New "World who sought to escape 
the vengeance of Cromwell, which was excited against 
those who had attempted a general revolt, were John 
and Andrew Washington, great-grandsons of the 
grantee of Sulgrave, who landed in Virginia in 1657. 
The brothers purchased an extensive tract of land in 
Westmoreland County, between the rivers Potomac 
and Rappahannock. Near the place M'here Bridges 
Creek falls into the Potomac, John took up his abode, 
and married Miss Anne Pope. He became an exten- 
sive planter, a member of the House of Burgesses, 
and the leader of the Virginia forces against the Sen- 
eca Indians. His grandson Augustine was born in 
1694, and was twice married. His first union was in 
1715 to Jane Butler, of Westmoreland County, 
daughter of Caleb Butler. Four children were the 
fruit of this union, two of whom died in childhood. 
The survivors were Laurence and Augustine Wash- 
ington, whose mother died in November, 1728. Au- 
gustine Washington married, in 1730, a beautiful 
young lady named Mary Ball. She bore him four 
sons and two daughters. The younger daughter, 
called Mildred, died in infancy; the other was named 
Elizabeth. The second son was called Samuel ; his 
brothers were John Augustine, and Charles ; and the 
eldest of the four was one whose name history loves 
to record, and which nations bless, — the father and 
founder of American freedom. 



16 THE LIFE AND TIMES 

George Washington was born on Feb. 22d, 1732. 
on Bridges Creek, the old homestead of the family. 
His father, soon after his birth, removed to Stafford 
County. The house in which he resided was situated 
on an elevation ; and a meadow near it, bordering on 
the Eappahannock, was the playground of the boy 
who was destined to bear such a conspicuous part in 
the history of his country. 

Virginia, in those days, did not possess the advan- 
tages, in an educational point of view, which she 
afterward attained. The facilities for instruction were 
few, and the capabilities of teachers were of an humble 
character. To complete the education of their sons, 
the rich planters usually sent them to England ; and 
this course was adopted frequently, in different parts 
of the land, till a much later date. "While George 
was yet a child, Augustine Washington sent his eldest 
son Laurence to England to puraue his studies, con- 
sidering him, at the age of fifteen, as the head of 
the family. 

As soon as George was old enough, he was sent to 
the best school which the neighborhood afforded. It 
formed a striking contrast to the schools that have 
since grown up in the land ; for it was of very little 
pretension, and presided over by one of his father's 
tenants, whose name was Hobby, who, to the dignity 
of preceptor, added that of parish sexton. Reading, 
writing, arithemetic, and such elementary branches, 
were doubtless the amount of what young Washing- 
ton was then taught. At the same time, it should 
be remembered that he reaped the advantages of 
mental and moral instruction from his father at horae ; 



OF GEORGE WASHINGTON. 17 

and, as will afterward appear, from his excellent 
rnother. 

Laurence returned from England when George 
was seven or eight years of age. There existed a 
very strong attachment between the brothers. Lau- 
rence viewed George as a remarkable specimen of 
rectitude and truth, and the boy won his afiections 
and a claim to his protection ; while, on the other 
hand, George looked up to his brother, with his manly 
and cultivated mind, as a fit model for imitation, and 
thus, at an early age, these sentiments of affection 
and admiration impressed their influence on his 
future sentiments. 

The military ardor of his ancestors had an effect 
on the mind of Laurence Washington, and he grati- 
fied his military taste by joining the expedition of 
Admiral Vernon, commander-in-chief in the West 
Indies ; for which he embarked in 1740, in his twenty- 
second 3^ear. He received a captain's commission, 
and served with honor under Admiral Vernon and 
General Wentworth, in their joint expedition. He 
was present at the inefl'ectual attack on Carthagena ; 
was distinguished there by his bravery ; and was one 
of those who unflinchingly bore the enemy's fire, 
while his party retired with a loss of six hundred 
killed and wounded. This event gave his brother 
such a bias toward a military life, that his very re- 
creations were afterward of a martial character. His 
plaj'mates he turned into soldiers, and with reviews, 
parades, and sham-fights, he thus became, at a tender 
age, a commander and a hero. 

George Washington, at the age of eleven, was left 
2* B 



18 THELIFEANDTIMES 

after his father's death in 1743, with the other child- 
ren of the second marriage, under the guardianship 
of his mother, whose good sense, conscientiousness, 
and excellent qualities, exacted deference while in- 
spiring aifection, formed the mind and stamped in- 
delibly the moral character of her son. Both by 
precept and by example she inculcated the lessons by 
which a warm temper, inherited from herself, was 
governed and directed ; and by her the principles of 
his future conduct were founded on the most rigid 
justice and equity. It was her wont to call her child- 
ren around her, and read from some favorite work 
of morality and religion. Then flowed from her 
lips the instructions which guided the future man, 
and which will affect the race for good till the latest 
posterity. Those who desire to know the basis of 
the moral character of Washington, will discover it 
by perusing Sir Mattheu'' Hale's " Contemplations, 
Moral and Divine," the favorite manual of his mother; 
in which volume her name was written with her own 
hand, preserved by her son with religious care, and 
still deposited in the archives of Mount Vernon. 
Mary Washington inculcated those principles, and 
inspired those sentiments, by which her son was guided 
throughout life ; which rendered him one of the best, 
as well as one of the greatest, of men. 

Washington's father being deceased, and Hobby's 
course of learning no longer suited to his wants, 
George was sent to the school of Mr. Williams, at 
Bridges Qreek, and resided with Augustine. Hia 
own purpose, and the object of his friends, were, to fit 
him for ordinary business life ; he never made any 



OF GEORGE WASHINGTON. 19 

attempt to acquire a knowledge of the classics ; nor 
does he seem to have had any inclination for such 
studies as the learned languages, rhetoric, or the 
belles lettres ; though, at a more recent period, he 
gave some attention to the French. His education 
was plain and eminently practical; and his manu- 
script school books which are yet preserved, display 
great neatness and correctness. In a book of arith- 
metic still remaining at Mount Vernon, is an attempt 
to portray forms and faces, probably those of his 
school- mates; but in other respects it presents a busi- 
ness-like appearance. One thing of infinite service to 
him in after-life, both in the management of his estate 
and at the head of armies, was his practical and 
lawyer-like acquaintance w^ith business forms. All 
sorts of mercantile and legal papers, bills of exchange, 
bonds, notes of hand, and deeds, gave him skill in 
keeping accounts; and monuments of his diligence 
are yet to be seen in financial affairs posted up in 
books, with his own hand, and relating to all the 
transactions of his property, dealings with persons 
at home or abroad, and accounts with Government. 
He had the good sense to appreciate physical edu- 
cation, which, by means of the athletic exercises of 
running, wrestling, pitching bars and quoits, exerts 
more influence on the mind than is generally sup- 
posed, and tends greatly to produce the mens sana in 
sano corpore. In these exercises Washington took the 
lead among his young associates ; and the muscles of 
his large and powerful frame had attained such de- 
velopment, at this early period, that tradition points 
out the place where, when still a boy, he cast a stouo 



20 THELIFEANDTIMES 

across the Rappahannock ; and anecdotes yet attest 
his achievements as a horseman, in which he excelled, 
so as to be able to mount and manage the most ungov- 
ernable steed. These accomplishments, and the rigid 
principles of justice and impartial probity on which 
his conduct was regulated, in the most minute par- 
ticulars, rendered him an umpire among his young 
associates, from whose decisions there was no appeal ; 
and the type of the future man was visible in the fact 
that, as he was their chosen military chief at an ear- 
lier age, he had now became their young legislator. 
One thing in particular, at every period of his career, 
prominently characterized him ; and that was his 
reverence for the Supreme Being, the acknowledg- 
ment of his control of human affairs, and of the su- 
perintending Providence that directs all sublunary 
fivents. 



OF GEORGE WASHINGTON. 21 



CHAPTER II. 

LAURENCE WASHINGTON — THE FAIRFAX FAMILY — GEORGE WASHING- 
TON'S DESIRE FOR A MILITARY LIFE — HIS MOTHER WITHDRAWS HER 
CONSENT TO HIS ENTERING THE NAVY — RETURN TO SCHOOL, AND 

APPLICATION TO MATHEMATICS — HIS PROFICIENrY IN SURVEYING 

FALLS IN LOVE, AND GROWS MELANCHOLY HIS ASSOCIATION WITH 

THE FAIRFAX FAMILY, AND ITS BENEFICIAL EFFECTS HUNTING 

COMPLETES THE CURE — HIS SURVEY OF LORD FAIRFAX'S DOMAINS — 
HIS APPOINTMENT AS PUBLIC SURVEYOR — THE PERILS OF THE WIL- 
DERNESS — THE BRACING EFFECTS OF HIS DUTIES, PHYSICALLY AND 
MENTALLY — GREENWAY COURT — INFLUENCE OF HARDY TOIL AND 
GOOD SOCIETY COMBINED. 

The affection of Laurence Washington for his 
brother was greatly augmented after the death of their 
father. Laurence had now become an important 
man in Virginia, a member of the House of Bur- 
giesses, and adjutant-general of the district. Through 
him, George became intimate with the family of 
William Fairfax, whose princely seat of Belvoir 
was situated near Mount Vernon, on the Potomac. 
William Fairfax was a liberally educated man of the 
world, and combined experience with abstract learn- 
ing, having served with honor both in the East and 
West Indies, and aided in freeing New Providence, 
of which he was governor, from pirates. He had 
charge of the Virginia estates of his cousin. Lord 
Fairfax, during some years, and Belvoir was the 
place of his residence. Here, in the management ol 



22 THELIFEANDTIME8 

the large interests of Lord Fairfax, he lived in con- 
siderable style ; and a family of sons and daughters 
of refined tastes and cultivated minds, rendered his 
residence yet more delightful. Intimacy with a family 
like this, who combined the refinement of European 
with the rural simplicit} of colonial life, was of the 
utmost service to George "Washington at this period; 
and to his pleasant intercourse with them, is due, in 
a great measure, that polish and perfect good-breed- 
ing which formed one of his prominent characteris- 
tics. A manuscript still remains, in his hand-writing, 
which evinces the desire generated in his mind at 
this period, to behave with propriety in their society; 
and shows clearly the superior degree of self-control 
to which he rendered himself subject. The code in 
question was called " rules for behavior in company 
and conversation ;" and though containing somethings 
of a trivial nature, is, on the whole, such as any youth 
might use and imitate with profit. 

During the visits of George at Mount Vernon, the 
desire for a military life w^as enkindled in his mind 
by various circumsta.nces ; among which were his 
intercourse with his brother, who was then adjutant- 
general, and retained pleasing reminiscences of hia 
old cruises, and the society of William Fairfax, a sol- 
dier who had witnessed many scenes of trial. Some 
of the companions-in-arms of Laurence were visitors 
at Mouftt Vernon, and their conversation frequently 
turned on military matters by sea and land. Occa- 
sionally, too, one of Vernon's old ships anchored in 
the Potomac ; and all these circumstances combined 
together made George desirous of entering the navy, 



OF GEORGE WASHINGTON. 23 

to whicli he was encouraged by his brother and Mr. 
B^'airfax. The navy then seemed the surest path of 
fame ; but the difficulty was with Mrs. "Washington. 
Her reluctant consent was at length obtained; a mid- 
Bhipman's warrant was procured, and George was 
about to enter the service at the age of fourteen. It 
is said his luggage was already on board a man-of-war 
then at anchor below Mount Vernon; but his mother's 
heart at last failed her, and, resolute as was her mind, 
she could not give up her son, the probable support 
of herself and the other children, to the perils of a 
seafaring life. Thus the scheme was abandoned. 
Instead of the sea, George returned to school, and 
during two years more applied himself to the study 
of mathematics, in those departments which are use- 
ful in a civil or military career. Land surveying was 
a branch in which he became an adept, and for which, 
by the most rigid application, he qualified himself in 
the highest degree. He kept regular field-books; 
surveyed the neighborhood; made accurate diagrams, 
and entered with the greatest precision the measure- 
ment of boundaries.- He did everything in the most 
masterly manner; and he formed those habits of 
mind by which he was prepared for every emergency, 
and which rendered him equal to the most compli- 
cated difficulties and perilous undertakings. Amid 
documents which evince such close and rigid appliea 
tion, one in his own hand-writing was afterward 
found, which shows that at the age of fifteen he was 
not proof against the arrows of Cupid, but actually 
became smitten with the charms of some unknown 
beauty. This cirounistance rendered him unhappy, 



24 THELIFEANDTIMES 

porhaps for the reason that he was toe diffident to 
push his suit — a characteristic which he displayed in 
later years in female society. An old lady whom he 
nsed to visit when they were both young, said : " He 
was a bashful young man ; I used often to wish he 
would talk more." Washington left school in the 
autumn of 1747, and went to Mount Vernon, where 
the image of the fair one still followed him ; and, in 
his mathematical studies and surveying exercises, his 
spirits were yet affected with tender recollections. 
His sorrows were at last poured forth in verse, in 
which he mournfully speaks of his "poor restless 
heart, wounded by Cupid's dart." 

"Washington was a favorite of "William Fairfax, 
the cousin of Lord Thomas Fairfax, for whose estates 
he was agent. This nobleman was a great friend of 
George, and, in a measure, the founder of his future 
fortunes. At this period he was sixty years of age, 
had been educated at the University of Oxford, and 
was there distinguished. He had made a figure in 
London society ; had held a commission in the Blues; 
and had gained additional credit to his connections and 
title by contributing some papers to Addison's Spec- 
tator. He then launched into fashionable life ; loved 
a beautiful young lady, who accepted his addresses ; 
and, after purchasing her wedding dresses, broke her 
ensragement and married a duke. Lord Fairfax, stung 
with mortified pride and wounded affection, avoided 
the sex ever afterward, except such as were con- 
nected with him ; and visited his estates in "V^irginia in 
llf\9. These had descended to him from his mother, 
dano-hter of Thomas, Lord Culpepper, who obtained 



OF tlJBUKGE WASHINGTON. 25 

a sraht of them from Charles li., which included the 
lands between the Kappahannock and Potomac rivers. 
Finding the Potomac had its source in the Allegheny 
Mountains, his lordship claimed a commensurate en 
largement of his grant; and matters being compro- 
mised, his domains extended into the Allegheny 
Mountains, and included a large portion of the Shen- 
andoah Valley. The mildness of the climate and the 
noble forest scenery, the abundance of the game, and 
the frank cordiality of the Virginians, won upon Lord 
Fairfax, Avho made his abode with them ; and, though 
eccentric, he was amiable in character and generous in 
temper. George William Fairfax, son of his lordship, 
educated in England, and afterward married to a 
daughter of Colonel Carey, on James River, was now, 
in his twenty-second year, on a visit to Belvoir, with 
his bride and her sister. 

In such a scene Washington felt that female society 
produced a soothing effect upon his melancholy; and 
the charms of Miss Carey made an impression on his 
heart, which yet preserved the traces of his original 
passion for the " lowland beauty." He was then, at 
the age of sixteen, tall, athletic, and well calculated 
to inspire regard ; and all this was enhanced by the 
soft melancholy depicted in his countenance. The 
confession made by him at the time to several confi- 
dants, prove 'that the sorrow and gloom of his former 
passion had been almost charmed away by the graces 
of tlie sister-in-law of Fairfax. The object of his 
first love is not certainly known. She is said to have 
been a Miss Grimes, of Westmoreland County, after- 
wards Mrs. Lee, mother of General Henry Lee, who 
3 



26 THELIFEANDTTMKS 

became a favorite of "WashiiDgton, as is supposed, 
from the tenderness once entertained for his mother. 
That which chiefly contributed to heal the wounds 
of disappointed aftection in the breast of Washing- 
ton, was the fox-hunting Lord Fairfax; whose society 
and influence, resulting from his having chosen him 
as the companion of his hunting excursions, gradu- 
ally engrossed his attention and divided his thoughts. 
lie took Washington into special favor. They rode 
together; and, under the tuition of his lordship, the 
youth acquired that zest for the chase for which he 
afterward became remarkable. His lordship had a 
fine stud of horses, and excellent hounds. An im- 
portant result of the fox-hunting was the discovery 
by his lordship of the excellent qualities of Washing- 
ton, his courage and capacity for enduring fatigue, as 
well as the modest self-restraint by which he was 
characterized. Hp had seen the accuracy and neat- 
ness with which his surveys were executed at Mount 
Vernon. Lord Fairfax now required a surveyor of his 
domains beyond the Blue Ridge, which squatters had 
taken possession of, and of which a regular survey had 
never been made. It was his earnest desire to have 
these lands examined, and apportioned into lots by a 
systematic measurement, in order to efl'ect the eject- 
ment of the squatters, or reduce them to terms of 
moderation. He made, therefore, an offer to Wash- 
ington to undertake this important task, and the pro- 
posal was accepted. It was just what he desired; and 
after a few simple preparations were made, a short 
time was sufficient to fit the active youth for his first 
expedition amid the perils of the wilderness. 



OF GEORGE WASHINGTON. 2? 

While the rigors of winter still prevailed in the 
mountains, and the lower parts of the landscape were 
becoming enlivened by the milder influence of spring, 
in the month of March, 1748, having completed his 
sixteenth year, Washington, accompanied by George 
William Fairfax, set out on his expedition. Their 
road lay by Ashley's Gap, a path through the Blue 
Ridge. At a place where it is about twenty-five miles 
wide, they entered the valley of the Shenandoah, 
bounded on the one side by the Blue Ridge, and on 
the other by the North Mountain, a branch of the 
Alleghenies. A beautiful and copious river, bearing 
the same name as the valley, flows through it, appro- 
priately called by the Indians "the daughter of the 
stars." The travellers first halted at what Washing- 
ton calls his "lordship's quarters," a lodge in the wil- 
derness, near the present town of Winchester, and in 
a region of great beauty, crowned with stately trees 
and a noble maple grove, on the banks of the Shen- 
andoah. He viewed the spot not with a poetical, but 
a business eye ; the realities of life had started up in 
his path, and romance had forever vanished. 

Washington describes in his journal the qualities of 
the soil, and makes a faithful record of the difi:erent lo- 
calities as presented to his view, and their relative value. 
The habits of observation which he had so sedulously 
cultivated were now of the utmost importance to him, 
and he had become an adept in his art. Where the 
town of Winchester now stands, they lodged for a 
night. Civilization had scarcely reached this place 
at that early day. The company lay before the fire 
after supper, but Washington was shown to a bed- 



28 THELIFEANDTIMES 

room. Having retired, he soon missed the dean 
sheets of Mount Vernon ; and on a straw-matted 
couch he was so annoyed by insects beneath the 
threadbare blanket, that he was glad to dress again, 
and join the compan}^ at the fire. The survey began 
near the confluence of the Shenandoah with the Po- 
tomac, and was continued for a distance along the 
banks of the former, where the hand of industry had 
made some clearings, and had produced crops of 
grain, hemp, and tobacco. The Potomac was then 
swollen with rains, and could not be passed. Having 
to remain a few days until the waters should subside, 
they meanwhile made a visit to a mountain spring, 
since known as " Sulphur Springs." The location of 
their star-lit camp M'as what is now called Bath, one 
of the favorite watering-places of Virginia. Lord 
Fairfax, at a later date, used the waters of one of 
these, which still goes by his name. Soon afterward 
they crossed the river, in a canoe, to the Maryland 
side, their horses swimming over; and after a ride 
of forty miles over an execrable path, they halted at 
the house of Colonel Cresap, and remained for the 
night. Inclement weather yet detained them. A 
party of thirty Indians, carrying a scalp, appeared. 
They had a war-dance ; a fire was made in a space in 
the centre of the circle ; an orator delivered an ex- 
citing speech, and several Indian scenes were acted 
amid yells, whoops, and grotesque grimaces. Wash- 
ington made notes of this strange exhibition, and his 
keen observation enabled him to form a just estimate 
of savage c*haracter, which rendered him capable of 
dealing with the wild natives of the forest. The next 



OF GEORGE WASHINGTON. 29 

encampment was made after recrossing the river, at 
the mouth of Patterson's Creek, which was effected 
as before. Thej had now spent two weeks in Frede- 
rick County, in the wild mountains on the south of 
the Potomac, where lauds were surveyed and laid 
out, and wild turkeys and game furnished their whole 
subsistence. The wind blew down their tent at one 
time; the smoke expelled them from it at another; 
and while each one was his own cook, and their 
dishes were of the most primitive description, they 
were often drenched with rain ; and a companion 
once saved Washington from the fire which was burn 
ing the straw on which he was reposing. 

As the survey progressed, many squatters were 
anxious to obtain a cheap title to the land upon which 
they had settled. Many Germans who had emi- 
grated thither with their wives and families, and 
could not understand English, followed them; and 
at the house of Solomon Hodge, a justice of the 
peace, they had an amusing diversion from the camp 
life to which they had become accustomed. At his 
table they had only such knives as the guests brought 
with them. Washington describes himself as having 
been out all day, and laying on the straw or a bear- 
skin before the fire, " with man, wife, and children, 
like dogs and cats ; and happy is he who gets the 
berth nearest the tire." 

The survey being completed, he returned to Mount 
Vernon on the 12th of April, from the southern 
branch of the Potomac, crossed the mountains, the 
Shenandoah Valley, and the Blue Ridge, and received 
for his services, when actively employed, a doubloon 



30 THELIFEANDTIMES 

a day. Lord Fairfax was well satisfied with the man- 
ner in which "Washington executed this important 
unaertaking; and soon afterward laid out a manor of 
ten thousand acres in the spot on the other side of 
the Blue Eidge, called his "quarters." This place, 
M^hich he named Greenway Court, included within 
its limits arable land, noble forests, and fertile 
meadows. 

It is probable that the influence of Lord Fairfax 
obtained for Washington the post of public sur- 
veyor, which gave his labors superior authorit}', so 
as to entitle them to be recorded in the county ;^fiices. 
This occupation was lucrative, for at that time the 
number of public surveyors was very few ; and the 
knowledge acquired in this occupation for a term of 
three years, enabled Washington to make advanta- 
geous purchases in future. 

During his employment as public surveyor, Wash- 
ington was a frequent guest at Greenway Court. 
The projected manor never was erected; but a one- 
storied building, with dormer windows, two wooden 
belfries, and a sloping roof in the antique Virginia 
fashion, with a verandah which extended the whole 
length of the house, was constructed on a green knoll 
embowered in trees. The noble proprietor never 
slept in the main building, but in a wooden house 
about twelve feet square. Li a small structure he 
had his offices, and there all his business was trans- 
acted. A long train of black and white servants, 
stables for horses, and kennels for hounds, and a 
plentiful table in the English style, proclaimed the 
opulence of the owner; while a crowd of Indiana, 



OF GEORGE WASHINGTON. 31 

half-breeds, and loiterers, who freely partook of the 
good things the kitchen afibrded, was an excellent 
comment on the hospitality and abundance of Lord 
Fairfax's establishment. 

Greenway Court has fallen to decay, and in a mag- 
nificent county of great beauty, it is crumbling to the 
earth ; but in those days Washington perused in ita 
library the "History of England" and the pages of 
" The Spectator." His expanding mind reaped instruc- 
tion from the man of literary talents and cultivated 
tastes, while his fondness for the chase was gratified, 
in the proper seasons, with his congenial friend and 
patron, Lord Fairfax. Washington had now spent 
three or four years beyond the Blue Eidge, occasion- 
ally visiting his brother at Mount Vernon. The toil 
and privations to which he had been exposed, hia ex- 
peditions amid the rude inhabitants of the wilderness, 
and his occasional intercourse with his brother and 
the Fairfax family, had the effect of accustoming his 
mind to endurance, and softening his manners to 
courtliness, by which he attained the rare faculty of 
blending together the graceful suavity of the gentle- 
man, with the martial powers of a hero. 



32 THE LIFE AND TIMES 



CHAPTER III. 

rRENCH AND ENGLISH DISPUTES RESPECTING THE TALLKT OF THK 
OHIO — GROUNDS OF THEIR SEVERAL CLAIMS — THE OHIO COM- 
PANY LAURENCE WASHINGTON — HIS LIBERAL POLICY FRENCH 

COMPETITION DE BIENVILLE HIS PLANS — CHRISTOPHER GIST, 

THE PIONEER HIS EXPEDITION TO THE FRONTIER, AND OPERA- 
TIONS WITH THE INDIAN TRIBES HIS NEGOTIATIONS, AND THEIR 

SUCCESS HIS RETURN THE ATTEMPT OF lONCAIRE — HIS ILL 

SUCCESS AT LOG-TOWN, AND LETTER TO THE GOVERNOR OF PENN- 
SYLVANIA — THE INDIAN TERRITORIES. 

While Washington was surveying in the wilder- 
ness, and acquiring mental strength and ampler ex- 
perience, those events were in course of preparation 
which exerted a powerful influence on his subsequent 
destiny ; and the secret counsels were elaborated in 
the workshops of diplomacy, which ultimately pro- 
duced important results. To understand this asser- 
tion, it is necessary to remember that the peace of 
Aix-la-Chapelle, by which the general war in Europe 
was terminated, left the boundaries between the 
British and French possessions in America unde- 
tiued ; and, as a natural consequence, both nations 
laid claim to the same immense tracts of territory', 
and each hastened to anticipate the other in obtain- 
ing possession of them. 

The Ohio Valley, westof the Allegheny Mountains, 
was remarkable for its fertility, its fine hunting and 



OF GEORGE WASHINGTON. 33 

fishing grounds, its healthful climate, and its great 
resources and facilities for inland commerce; and it 
became the chief bone of contention. The French 
claimed that they had a right to the territory in con- 
sequence of its discovery by Padre Marquette and hia 
comrade, Joliet of Quebec, in 1673; these persons 
having sailed down the Mississippi as far as Arkan- 
sas ; and arrogating for their sovereign not only the 
river, but the lands lying adjacent and its tributary 
streams. The English claimed the disputed territory 
by virtue of an Indian conquest, by which the Iro- 
quois or Six Nations held the lands conquered by 
their ancestors ; which lands, for a consideration of 
four hundred pounds, they afterward sold, by a bar- 
gain made at Lancaster in 1744, between Commis- 
sioners from Pennsylvania, Maryland, and Virginia, 
and their own chiefs. This purchase included all 
their right and title from the west of the Allegheny 
to the Mississippi River. The truth was, that the In- 
dians who made this treaty were neither in possession 
of the ceded territory at the time, nor were they sober 
when they made the alleged transfer. For these rea- 
sons France and England eventually commenced 
hostilities; and a contest was begun by which France 
lost all her American possessions, and England the 
greater part of them. 

At this period the inhabitants of the colony of 
Pennsylvania held a monopoly of the trade with the 
western Indian races, exchanging peltrv, trinkets 
powder, shot, rum, and blankets, for valuable furs. 
^o white settlement as yet existed there, and the 
French had but a nominal authority over tribes of 

c 



34 THELIFEANDTIMES 

mixed Iroquois, Delawares, Shawnees, and Mingoos, 
who had mio-rated from Canada at the beffinninij of 
the century, and had taken up their residence on tho 
Ohio River and its tributaries. 

Laurence Washington and his brother Augustine 
v^ere among the influential Virginians who desired 
to gain a footing in this rich region, and a share in 
the trade carried on therein. A scheme was set on 
foot to procure, through John Hanbury, a rich Lon- 
don merchant, permission from the British Govern- 
ment to establish colonies on the other side of the 
Alleghenies. This met with favor, as forming a bar- 
rier to French encroachments, and to their antici- 
pated possession of the valley of the Ohio. A char- 
tered association under the name of " The Ohio 
Company," was established in 1749 ; and it received 
a grant of five hundred thousand acres of land, west 
of the Alleghenies, between the rivers Monongahela 
and Kanawha, with power to take up land north of 
the Ohio, if deemed necessary, No rent was required 
from them for ten years; but two-fifths of the hinds 
were to be selected immediately, on which, within 
seven years, one hundred families were to be settled. 
A fort was also to be erected against the Lidians, and 
garrisoned at their own expense. The concerns of 
the company were first managed by Mr. Thomas Lee, 
President of the Council of Virginia, and after his 
death, by Laurence Washington. Enlightened and 
liberal as he was, he desired to settle this tract with 
Germans from Pennsylvania, and to exempt them 
from the taxes and parish rates which they would 
ii^ve been required to pay on coming under the juris- 



OP GEORGE WASHINGTON. 35 

diction of Virginia. His views of the prevalent re- 
straints on conscience be regarded as unjust, and he 
thought those communities in which a narrow policy 
prevailed, flourished but slowly ; while those which 
were more liberal in their religious views, increased with 
greater rapidity. The colonization scheme progressed ; 
goods and presents from England, adapted to the In- 
dian trade, were imported ; and rewards were promised 
to veteran warriors and hunters who knew the path- 
less woods, for revealing the best route to Ohio. The 
French were in the held before the company was char- 
tered. The Governor of Canada, in 1749, sent Cele 
ron de Bienville, an able ofiicer, with three hundred 
men, to establish relations with the tribes resident on 
the banks of the Ohio, and to regain the possession 
of the country for the French. De Bienville made a 
judicious distribution of presents, and used his ut- 
most exertions to prevent them from trading with the 
English. He nailed leaden plates to the trees, and 
at the junction of the Ohio with its tributaries buried 
others in the ground, indicating that the lands on 
both sides, as far as their sources extended, belonged 
to France. The Indians saw these plates, and divined 
their purport ; and, as a consequence, sought British 
protection. Celeron ordered some Pennsylvania tra- 
ders whom he found trafficking with the English, to 
depart ; at the same time writing by them to the 
Governor of Pennsylvania, James Hamilton, inform- 
ing him of his mission to the Ohio, and expressing 
surprise at meeting with English traders where Eng- 
land possessed no rights, threatening to deal with 
rigor in case they should repeat the act in future, 



36 THELIFEANDTIMES 

These threiits attracted the attention of the governor 
and his council to the protection of their trade ; and 
Hugh Crawford was sent out to negotiate with the 
Indians, to wdiora they promised that their friendship 
to the English " would last while the sun and moon 
ran round the world :" he gave them, at the same 
time, three strings of wampum as tokens of alliance. 
The governor valued Indian friendship, and in Octo- 
ber sent out George Crogan, whom he thought adapted 
to gain great influence over the Indians ; being a 
veteran trader, who had already made himself popu- 
lar among them by distributing presents. Andrew 
Montour, a Canadian half-breed, was to accompany 
him as interpreter. They obtained a small present, 
but were to assemble a meeting of the tribes at Log- 
town, on the Ohio, in the next spring, to receive a 
p-eater gift which the assembly would bestow on that 
occasion. 

Christopher Gist was afterward dispatched by the 
Ohio Company to explore the lands on the Ohio and 
its tributaries, as far as the Great Falls ; to learn the 
mountain passes, the bearings and courses of rivers; 
and obtain information of the Indian tribes. By an 
Indian path which hunters had pointed out, he left 
the Potomac on the last day of October for the Ohio. 
He passed the Juniata and the Alleghenies, reached 
the village of Shaunopin, on the Ohio, and crossed 
the part of it now termed the Allegheny, arriving at 
Log-town, an Indian village, situated a few miles 
below what is at present the city of Pittsburg. This 
was the residence of Tanacharisson, head sachem of 



OF (lEOttGE WASHINGTON. 37 

tne mixed tribes, surnamed the half-king, and subject 
to the Iroquois Confederacy. 

Gist returned to Shawnee-town after many adven- 
tures, and narrated his success with the confederacy 
of the Miamees. Great rejoicing was the conse- 
quence, and feasting, firing of guns, and congratula- 
tory speeches became the order of the day. His 
object being gained, he proceeded, and directed his 
course toward Cattawa, on the Kentucky River; and 
soon the magnificence of that country opened to his 
view, long before the great pioneer, Daniel Boone, 
explored it. He continued his journey up the valley 
of the Kentucky, and on the first of May ascended 
a rock sixty feet in height, when the great Kanawha 
met his view in the distance. He crossed it on a raft, 
and after many toilsome days arrived on the banks 
of the Yadkin, his frontier home. He found his house 
deserted. A massacre by the Indians had taken place 
in his absence. But an old man assured him of the 
safety of his family, and he soon rejoined them on 
the banks of the Roanoke. Meanwhile, the Ottawa 
ambassadors had returned to inform the French that 
their fiag had been removed from the council-house 
of Piqua, and that the Miamees had rejected their 
friends, and defied them; also that the western 
tribes would meet at Log-town, and conclude a treaty 
with Virginia. An attempt was made by the French 
to prevent the treaty, by means of Captain loncaire, 
who had, when young, been captured by a tribe of 
Iroquois, had been brought up and adopted by them, 
was accustomed to their habits, and afterward re- 
tained great influence among them on hia return to 



S8 THELIFEANDTTMBS 

civilized life. He was active in the French interests, 
and appeared at Los^-town in company with forty 
Iroquois warriors. The assembly of the tribes were 
feasting, rejoicing, and firing guns in honor of Penn- 
sylvania; for Crogan and his interpreter were dis- 
tributing the presents which had been sent by the 
governor of that colony. loncaire delivered an ani- 
mated speech to the chiefs in their own language ; 
and advised them to turn away the Indian traders, 
and never deal with them, under penalty of the dis-, 
pleasure of their father, the Canadian Governor. 
He deposited in conclusion a belt of wampum of 
large size. An indignant chief arose and asked : 
"What right had the Canadian Governor here?" and 
promised to trade with the English as long as one of 
them should live. Thus the wampum-belt was re- 
jected, loncaire then wrote to the Governor of Penn- 
sylvania, to the efiect, that the Marquis de la Jon- 
'^uiere, Governor of IsTew France, had given him 
orders to prevent the English from making any treaty 
in the Ohio country; that those territories belonged 
to the King of France ; and that the English had no 
title to them. Meanwhile, Mr. Gist, under the sanc- 
tion of the Virginia Legislature, sui'veyed the land? 
in the grant of the Ohio country, south of the Ohio, 
and as far down as the great Kanawha. In this ex- 
pedition he was met by an old Delaware sachem ; 
and the Indian addressed him this searching question : 
" Tiie French claim all the land on the one side of 
the Ohio, the English claim all the land on the other 
Bide; now, where does the Indian's possessions lie?" 
Between the encroachments of the French and the 



0^ eECIiaB WASHINGTON. 39 

English, and the influences tliat have followed them, 
the aborigines have gradually become extinct; and, in 
the lands where the red man roamed and sounded the 
war-whoop, the race has well nigh passed away. 
Such were some of the events that led to the war be- 
tween the English and French, in which great bravery 
was displayed on both sides, and the pathway ulti- 
mately opened to the independence of the United 
States. 



40 TEELIFEANDTiaiEii 



CHAPTEK lY. 

HOSTILE PREPARATIONS OF THE ENGLISH AND FRENCH TTASHINGTOS 

APPOINTED AN ADJUTANT-GENERAL MOUNT VERNON BECOMES A 

SCHOOL OF ARMS ILL HEALTH OF HIS BROTHER LAURENCE — HE 

ACCOMPANIES HIM TO BARBADOES — LAURENCE WASHINGTON PRO- 
CEEDS TO BERMUDA — HE RETURNS TO DIE AT MOUNT VERNON — NEW 
DUTIES DEVOLVING ON GEORGE WASHINGTON — THE OHIO TRIBES AT 
lOG-TOWN — HOSTILITY OF THE SIX NATIONS — TANACHARIPSON 
BEFORE THE FRENCH COMMANDANT HIS SPEECH, AND THE FRENCH- 
MAN'S REPLY FRENCH INTENTIONS EFFORTS OF THE OHIO COM- 
PANY — CAPTAIN TRENT APPOINTED ON THE WESTERN MISSION BT 
GOVERNOR DINWIDDIE — HIS ILL SUCCESS, AND RETURN WASHING- 
TON APPOINTED TO SUCCEED HIM — SETS OUT IN NOV. 1753. 

Hostile preparations were now made on the part 
of France, to dispute the possession by the Eno:]ish 
of this western territory. The French launched a 
large vessel on Lake Ontario, and made ready their 
outposts on the banks of the Ohio. Their trading- 
house at Niagara was fortified, and every means was 
employed to prepare for a contest which was to be 
decided by the sword. The British colop.ies were 
likewise on the alert, and in Virginia in particular; 
where an adjutant-general was appointed to attend 
to the organization of the militia, and the proper 
equipment of the troops. George Washington was at 
this time made an adjutant-general; and he_ reflected 
credit on the post, though he was yet but nineteen 
years of age. A retired officer, who had served at 



OF GEORGE WASHINGTON. 41 

Cartliagona with Laurence Wasliington, assiduousl}' 
instructed him in the military art. From him he 
learned the manual exercises and some j&eld evolutions. 
Jacob Van Braam, a Dutchman, and a master of 
fence, also trained Washington in the use of the 
Bword ; and Mount Vernon resounded with the clash 
of arms, and the din of hostile preparations. But 
the declining state of his brother's health inter- 
rupted the martial studies of George Washington; 
threatening symptoms of a pulmonary disease made 
a residence in the West Indies necessary ; and 
thither the two brothers sailed on September 28, 
1751. They landed at Barbadoes on* the 3d of No- 
vember. Amid beautiful scenes of tropical verdure, 
and flattered by the delusive hopes held out by the 
physicians of that place, Washington selected his 
abode in a pleasant house with an extensive sea pros- 
pect; and the theatre which the place afforded gave 
him some amusement. He was invited to dine at 
the residence of the first families; and at that of 
Judge Maynard, these brothers associated with a 
company called " The Beefsteak and Tripe Club," 
where everything was served up in the richest profu- 
sion, which greatly excited the admiration of Washing- 
ton. He was taken ill of the small-pox several weeks 
after his arrival in the island; but under judicious 
medical treatment, and his brother's care, he became 
convalescent in a short time. His face was sliglitly 
pitted ever after. On his recovery, he made various 
excursions, and was struck with the spendthrift habits 
and recklessness of some of the planters. His as- 
tonishment was excited when he learned that persona 
4 * 



42 THELIFEANDTIMES 

in that island inheriting estates of three or four hun- 
dred acres of land, could be in want. 

No radical change in the health of his brother took 
place, and the invalid resolved to go to Bermuda in 
the spring; and that till then* George should return, 
and bring back his wife from Virginia. After an 
absence of four months, George reached home in 
February. He made observations of a minute nature 
on both voyages; copied the log-book at sea every 
day ; noted the changes of the winds, the motions of 
the ship, and every incident that transpired, and 
gained some practical nautical knowledge. The soil 
and agricultural products, the commerce, military 
strength, and governmental regulations of Barbadoes, 
M^ere all subjected to the most careful scrutiny, and 
remarks on them he noted in his journal. When 
his brother first wrote from Bermuda, there were hopes 
of his recovery, and he still desired his wife to join 
him. But another letter which followed, was more 
desponding, and prevented her going out. He talked 
of "going home to his grave," and this dark fore- 
boding was full of the saddest meaning. He returned 
home in the summer, and reached it in time to die in 
the midst of his family ; attended by his brother, on 
whose paternal affection his heart seemed greatly to 
repos3. He died in his thirty-fourth year, July 26, 
1752, leaving a wife and daughter. 

George Washington, by the death of his brother, 
was placed in anew position. The latter left large 
estates, of which he was made the guardian ; and in 
ease his niece should die, the will specified that 
Mount Vernon should be possessed by her mother 



OF GEORGE WASHINGTON. 43 

during her lifetime, after which George should be- 
come the owner. He was appointed one of the exe- 
cutors of the will; and though but twenty-two years 
of age, such was the confidence he inspired, that the 
whole management of the estate devolved upon him, 
and he executed his trust with fidelity. 

The Ohio tribes of the Delawares, Shawnees, and 
Mingoes met at Log-town at the appointed time ; but 
the chiefs of the Six Nations would not convene with 
them, proudly delaring that it was not their custom 
to treat in the woods, and that if the Governor of Vir- 
ginia wanted to meet them, he should send them a 
present from their great father, meaning the British 
monarch ; and adding, that they would meet him at 
Albany. A treaty was eventually concluded by Colo- 
nel Fry and the Virginia Commissioners at Log-town, 
by which the tribes engaged not to molest the English 
settlers; and the half-king advised his brothers to 
build a strong house at the fork of the Mouongahela. 
Mr. Gist laid out a town, and building a fort at Shur- 
tee's Creek, east of the Ohio ; began a settlement near 
the Youghiogeny, in which he assembled eleven 
families ; while the Ohio Company established a 
trading-post at Will's Creek, now the Cumberland 
Iviver. French aggressions greatly oftended the Ohio 
tribes, and the half-king went to the French posts on 
Lake Erie, to remonstrate with them. lie addressed 
them as follows: "Fathers, you are the disturbers of 
this land by building towns, and taking the country 
from us by fraud and force. We kindled a fire a 
long time since at Montreal, where we desired you to 
Btay, and not to come and intrude on our land. I 



44 THELIFEANDTIMES 

now advise you to return to that place, for this land 
is ours." Taracharisson proceeded to tell the com- 
mandant, that if the French had behaved as the 
English, the tribes would have traded with them ; but 
that they could not be permitted to build fortified 
places, in a country which the Great Spirit had allotted 
to the Indians for their residence; that he desired to 
keep both parties at arm's length ; that he would 
support the most friendly part}' ; and was not afraid 
to order them off the land. The commandant re- 
sponded contemptuously, in comparing the Indians to 
mosquitoes, of which he had no fear; declared that 
the land did not belong to the Indian ; that his own 
forces were like the sands of the sea; and giving back 
his wampum, he flung it at him. 

The deeply-insulted Tanacharisson felt grieved at 
heart; he beheld future ruin impended over the In- 
dian ; and put his trust in the English as their only 
protectors. The French, it was said, intended to 
erect a chain of military forts to connect Canada and 
Louisiana, and thus conline the English between the 
Alleghenies. 

The Ohio Company soon had reason to complain 
to Lieutenant-Governor Dinwiddle of the hostility 
of the French and Indians. Captain Trent was dis- 
patched to the French commander on the Ohio, to re- 
monstrate, and he also carried presents for the Indians. 
He stopped at Log-town a short time ; then went to 
Piqua, and found that the place had been attacked 
by the French, their Indian allies, the Mianiis, de- 
feated, Piankesha slain, and the French flag floating 



OF GEORGE WASHINGTON. 45 

over the ruins. Trent became disheartened, and im- 
mediately made the best of his way homeward. 

Dinwiddie now looked around for a suitable person 
to undertake this mission. Washington was the per- 
son whom he selected. It is true he was only twenty- 
two years of age ; but public confidence had already 
obtained for him a reappointment as adjutant-general, 
and his acquaintance with the dangers and mysteries 
of the wilderness eminently fitted him for the arduous 
enterprize. His instructions were, that he should 
proceed to the Ohio, convene the Indian chiefs at 
Log-town, learn the localities at which the French 
were stationed, and obtain an Indian escort for the 
rest of the journey. At the chief French post he was 
to present the letter and credentials which he bore 
from the Governor of Virginia, to the commandant; 
and require an answer in the name of His Majesty, 
the British king. He was also to ascertain what 
French troops had crossed the lakes; the reinforce- 
ments which were expected from Canada ; the num- 
ber and localities of the forts, with their distances, 
and garrisons ; and lastly, to procure all possible in- 
formation respecting the intruders, their state or con- 
dition, and the objects which they had in view. He 
commenced his journey provided with the proper cre- 
dentials, having the seal of Virginia affixed, on the 
last day of i^ovember, 1753. The distance to be tra- 
versed extended about five hundred and sixty miles, 
over rugged and pathless mountains, an-d through 
lonely and cheerless wildernesses, where civilization 
had not yet appeared, or developed any of its genial 
influences. 



46 THELIFEAND TIMES 



CHAPTER V. 

Washington's journey to the ohio — adventures and observa- 
tions ON the MONONGAHELA HIS COMPANIONS — LOG-TOWN AND 

THE SACHEMS INDIAN DIPLOMACY lONCAIRE ARRIVAL AT 

VENANGO THE RESULTS OF CONVIVIALITY THE WAMPUM — LA 

FORCE, THE COMMISSARY CHEVALIER LEGARDEUR — AFFAIRS AT 

THE FORT EFFORTS TO SEDUCE THE SACHEMS FROM THEIR ENG- 
LISH ALLIANCE TRYING DELAYS DIFFICULT NAVIGATION OF 

FRENCH CREEK WASHINGTON ARRIVES AT VENANGO — THE HALF- 

KING's faith IN HIS ENGLISH BROTHERS — THE HOMEWARD ROUTE 
ITS DIFFICULTIES. 

"Washington commenced his perilous journey as 
soon as he received his appointment; and at Frede- 
ricksburg engaged his old master of fence, Van 
Braam, to accompany him and act as his interpreter. 
At Alexandria he procured the necessary supplies for 
the journey ; having reached Winchester on the fron- 
tier, he purchased horses, tents, and other parts of 
the outfit; and passing through a road recently 
opened to the Cumberland Eiver, then called Will's 
Creek, he arrived on its banks on the 14th of Novem- 
ber. Here he engaged Mr. Gist, the pioneer of the 
Ohio, as pilot in his expedition, John Davidson, an 
Indian interpreter, four frontiers-men, of whom two 
were traders ; with these and Van Braam he ad- 
vanced through a wild country, which the recent 
rains had rendered almost impassable. Ou the 



OF GEORGE WASHINGTON. 47 

Monongahela he learned from John Frazier, an Indian 
trader who kept a gunsmith's shop in the Indian vil- 
lage of Venango, from which the French had expelled 
him, that the French general who had commanded 
on the frontiers was recently dead; and that the 
army had retired into winter quarters. The rivera 
being swollen, Washins^ton sent the bas^o-ao-e down 
the Monongahela, in a canoe, in the care of two men, 
who had orders to meet him on the Ohio, at the con- 
Huence of the Monongahela and the Allegheny. 
Here he made a careful reconnoissance, and was im- 
pressed with the advantages which the place pos- 
sessed far the site of a military fort, for the purposes 
of defence, and as a depot for supplies. At a later 
period a fort erected on the spot by his advice, be- 
came distinguished in the annals of two wars ; and 
Fort du Quesne, so noted in frontier history, when 
tested by French engineers of experience and ability, 
proved the correctness of the military eye of Wash- 
ington. 

Here he visited Shingis in his village — the chief 
sachem, or king of the Delawares, one of the greatest 
of the native warriors — who had once raised the 
hatchet against the English, bnt who now accepted 
the invitation given him to be present at the council 
at Log-town. When they reached that village on the 
following day after sunset, on the 24th of November, 
Washington found the half-king absent at Beaver 
Creek, hunting; and he sent runners to invite him 
and the other chiefs to a conference. Next day tliere 
came to the village four French deserters, who gave 
Washington all the information which they possessed 



48 THELIFEANDTIMES 

respecting the French force atlTew Orleans, their forts 
on the Mississippi, and at the mouth of the Wabash ; 
of all which he made notes in his journal. From the 
sachem, on his arrival, he learned of the interview 
which had taken place between him and the French 
commandant; and that the French had erected two 
forts, of which the largest was on Lake Erie, the 
other on French Creek. The road to them was now 
impassable ; the nearest fort would not be reached in 
less than six days, and the journey would be required 
to be taken by way of Venango. Tko chiefs met 
Washington at the council-house on the next day, to 
whom he explained his object, and asked their ad- 
vice and co-operation. At the conclusion of the con- 
ference, he gave them that indispensable ingredient 
of Indian diplomacy, a string of wampum. Accord- 
ing to custom, the chiefs sat a long time after he had 
concluded his address, as if deliberating on what he 
bad said, or as if expecting to hear him continue. 

At last the sachem arose, and assured Washington 
on behalf of the tribes, that they considered the Eng- 
lish as brothers, and one people, and intended to 
return the French the wampums, or "speech belts;" 
which, in Indian diplomacy', signified a dissolution 
of all friendly relations. An escort was promised 
Washington, composed of Delawares, Mingoes, and 
Shenandoahs ; but a three days' preparation was re- 
quired for the journey. The delay was very inconve- 
nient to Washington, who had yet to learn the cha- 
racteristics of Indian diplomacy ; and he ascertained 
that a speedy departure would be offensive to Indian 
dignity. News arrived, at this crisis, that Captain 



OP GEORGE WASHINGTON. 49 

loncaire had convened a meeting at Venango, of the 
Mingoes, Delawares, and other tribes, and informed 
thera that, for the present, the French had entered 
into winter quarters, but would fight the English in 
the spring; and advieed them not to interfere, or the 
French and English would combine, and after exter- 
minating them, make a division of their lands. The 
sachem and the other chiefs were anxious to get 
from Washington the true purpose of his errand to 
the French commandant; and they declared that 
they had done as required by the Governor of Vir 
ginia. 

Washington set out on November the 30th, 1753, 
with his own party, and in company with an Indian 
hunter, the sachem, and another venerable sachem 
named Jeskakake, which means a "belt of wampum," 
and White Thunder. Although the distance to Ve- 
nango was only seventy miles, it took the party until 
the 4th of December to reach it. The French colors 
were displayed on their arrival; and in reply to an in- 
quiry of Washington, he was informed that the French 
commandant loncaire had control of the Ohio. That 
officer, when he ascertained the business of Washirg- 
ton, advised him to apply to the commander of the 
next fort for an answer to the letter; and, meanwhile, 
gave him an invitation to supper at head-quarters. 
The use of the bottle soon dispelled the prudence and 
disarmed the sagacity of his hosts ; for restraint was 
abandoned, and they avowed that it was their intention 
to take the territory and forts on the Ohio, and that 
they could do so ; for though the English could raise 
double their number of troops, they were too slow in 
.5 D 



50 THELIFEANDTIMES 

their movements to accomplish anything. Washing- 
ton preserved his sobriety, and listened to their 
drunken revealings, while Van Braam \vas employed 
in repeatedly pledging them. Washington, as usual, 
took notes of all that passed, especiallj' in reference 
to the number and distribution of the French forces, 
the forts and their localities, with the facilities which 
existed for their supply. The rain was too severe on 
the next day for the party to proceed, and loucaire 
wondered why the sachem had not appeared at head- 
quarters, and was enraptured to behold his Indian 
brothers. He made them presents, and entertained 
them abundantly with liquor; so that the poor half- 
king Jeskakake, and White Thunder, soon forgot 
everything in the stupefaction of a happy oblivion. 
The unfortunate sachem was sadly mortiiied on the 
next day, and could not be kept from making a speech, 
much to the same effect as that before the French 
commandant; and in conclusion he offered to return 
the French " speech belt," which loncaire would not 
receive, but desired him to take to the commander of 
the fort. It was only on the 7th of December that 
Washington could proceed, in consequence of the 
attempts and stratagems of loncaire to detain the 
sachems, or bring them over to his views. A wily 
French commissar}', named La Force, accompanied 
them — a resolute and active person, who made con- 
siderable mischief, and in the end met his just reward. 
Four days' travel, in the midst of snow and rain, 
brought the adventurers to the fort; it was placed on 
an island, fifteen miles south of Lake Erie. A hollow 
square, formed by four houses, with a defence of 



OF GEORGE WASHINGTON. 51 

bastions and palisading twelve feet high, with holes 
for cannon and small arms, were its chief elementa 
of strength, together with a forge, stables, and log- 
honses for the soldiers. Chevalier Legardeur de St. 
Pierre was the commandant — a ceremonious gentle* 
man of the old school, combining the politeness of 
the courtier with the exactness of the soldier. As soon 
as Washington had presented Governor Dinwiddle's 
letter and his own credentials, he was disposed to 
proceed at once to business ; but the Chevalier re- 
quested him to retain those documents till his prede- 
decessor, Eeparti, should arrive. That individual soon 
came, and Van Braam then read and translated the 
letter, in which Dinwiddle complained that the French 
had intruded into the dominions of the British crown, 
had erected forts in Ohio, and made settlements in 
Western Virginia. 

The writer desired to be informed upon whose au- 
thority the French commander had marched from 
Canada and made this invasion ; and he hoped that he 
would not pursue a course inimical to the friendly re- 
lations previously existing between the British mo- 
narch and the French king. He commended Wash- 
ington to his confidence and attention. While the 
Chevalier and his officers were deliberating upon their 
answer to this missive, Washington was taking notes 
of the fort, its plan, strength, and dimensions. He 
ordered his people to see what canoes were ready for 
service, and how many were in process of construction. 
He discovered that measures were being taken to with- 
draw the half-king and other sachems from the English 
alliance; and Washington advised them to deliver up 



62 THELIFEANDTIMES 

the "speech belts" to the French, as thej had before 
promised to do. The Indians asked an audience of the 
French, and a private one was accorded to them. The 
wily Chevalier evaded the acceptance of the proffered 
wampums, and declared that he had a present to send 
to Log-town, and wished to live at peace with all the 
tribes on the Ohio. Several circumstances induced 
Washington to make his stay at the fort as brief as pos- 
sible. He was informed that every British subject was 
to be seized, who traded on the Ohio ; and Captain 
Reparti told him that some Indians had carried a white 
boy as captive past the fort, and had borne several 
scalps of white men. The Chevalier gave him the 
sealed reply to Dinwiddle's letter on the 14th, and on 
the 15th he prepared to return by Venango ; but all 
his movements were impeded by a secret influence. 

Every means was now employed to seduce the 
sachems, and put the Indians at variance with the 
English. The commandant caused the canoes to be 
supplied with abundant provisions and liquor, dissem- 
bling all the artifices he practised for the detention of 
the party ; and when "Washington complained that 
their delay detained him, as they were a part of his 
company, he declared that it was not his intention to 
hinder their departure. He then in vain endeavored to 
persuade the sachems to start; but the secret was that 
they had been promised a present of guns if they de- 
layed till morning; and afterward, when they received 
them, attempts were made to intoxicate them. Just 
at that moment, Washington informed the half-king 
that his royal word was pledged to depart ; and the 
Bachem, after due importunity, complied, and leaving 



OF GEORGE WASHINGTON. 63 

the tempting liquor, embarked. The navigation of 
French Creek was full of peril from the floating ice, 
by which the frail skiffs were often in danger of being 
staved. The party had frequently to leap into the 
water, and draw the canoes over shoals ; and in one 
place to convey them across a neck of land for a 
quarter of a mile. At last they arrived at Venango. 
Washington and the sachems then separated, as 
White Thunder had injured himself, and the others 
desired to wait at Venango for several days to convey 
him down the river. Washington was apprehensive 
that the wily loncaire would ply the liquor to seduce 
them from the alliance, and warned the half-king of 
that danger. But he desired him not to fear, as he 
had given up the French, and would adhere to his 
English brothers. His sincerity afterward stood the 
test, for he faithfully kept his word. On December 
25th, Washington and his party set out from Venango 
to complete their homeward journey, with a long and 
difficult undertaking before them. It was feared that 
the jaded pack-horses would break down ; and Wash- 
ington, dismounting, set the example to the party of 
using the saddle-horses for transportation. The whole 
company now travelled on foot. The cold increased 
in intensity, and the horses were scarcely able to pro- 
ceed on their difficult and laborious pathway. 



6* 



64 THELIFEANDTIMES 



CHAPTER VI. 

PERILS IN THE WILDERNESS — MtTRDERING-TOWN — INDIAN TREACHERT 
— A NIGHT OF GREAT ANXIETY — FEARFUL DANGER ON THE ALLE- 
GHENY — FORTUNATE ESCAPE — QUEEN ALIQUIPPA, THE WATCH-COAT, 
AND THE FIRE-WATER — WASHINGTON CROSSES THE BLUE RIDGE — 
CHEVALIER DE ST. PIERRE's REPLY — THE MISSION OF CAPTAIN TRENT 
TO OHIO — WASHINGTON RAISES RECRUITS — DINWIDDIE FINDS THE 
VIRGINIANS GROWING DIFFICULT TO GOVERN — HIS EFFORTS TO RAISE 
RECRUITS — CAPTAIN VAN BRAAM — TRIALS IN TRANSPORTATION — 
CONTRECCEUR AT THE FORK OF THE OHIO. 

"Washington was impatient to return home. He 
put the cavalcade under Van Braam's direction, and, 
accompanied by Mr. Gist, with his pack on his 
shoulder, and his gun in hand, he hastened on to 
Beaver Creek, otherwise called Murdering-town, 
having once been the scene of an Indian massacre. 
Here he planned his route, struck through the forests, 
and hoped to be able to cross the Allegheny River on 
the ice. At Murdering-town, a party of Indians ap- 
peared to wait for them ; and an Indian proposed 
some very inquisitive questions respecting their jour- 
ney. Their way was through a trackless wild, and 
it was thought expedient to employ one of the Indians 
as a guide. Several circumstances tended to excite 
suspicion in the minds of the travellers in reference 
to this person, and an ambuscade was apprehended. 
They found themselves at length in a wide meadow, 
made brighter by the reflection of the snow on the 



OP GEORGE WASHINGTON. 55 

ground. The Indian guide, who had proceeded them 
fifteen paces, at length turned suddenly around, aimed 
at them, and fired. Washington was startled, but 
was not wounded, and on asking Gist wliether he 
was injured, his answer was in the negative. They 
ran and overtook the Indian as he reloaded ; seized 
him, and wrested his weapon from him. Gist would 
have dispatched the traitor; but Washington would 
not permit him to be slain, and pretending that the 
firing of the gun was an accident or signal, the 
Indian asserted the truth of this view of the case, and 
said his cabin was at no great distance. Gist re- 
plied that he might return home; but that they would 
remain there all night; giving the Indian at the same 
time a cake of bread, and saying that he must fur- 
nish them with some meat in the morning. The 
Indian then withdrew, and did not return. What- 
ever his designs may have been, he was apparently 
glad to be released. They continued their journey, 
however, and in the evening reached the banks of 
the Allegheny. They had expected to find the river 
frozen over. It was so, indeed, for fifty yards ; but 
quantities of broken ice were floating in the channel. 
A night of great anxiety ensued. They encamped 
on the borders of the river, and at daylight they at- 
tempted to construct a raft with an axe, which labor 
employed them a whole day. They then launched 
and tried to propel it ; but as they moved it with set- 
ting-poles, it became entangled between cakes of ice, 
and they were placed in imminent peril. Washing- 
ton, with his pole at the bottom, made great efl:brts to 
stay the raft till it could be released from the ice ; but 



56 THELIFEANDTIMES 

by the rapidity of the current the frozen masses 
struck with such violence against the pole, as to throw 
him into the water where it was of great depth ; and 
where he would have been drowned, had it not been 
for the tenacity with which he clung to a portion of 
the raft. At length they reached the opposite sliore, 
and passed the following night upon the snow. They 
then hurried forward to the house of Frazier, the 
Indian trader, on the Monongahela, where they heard 
of a family of whites on the banks of the Great Ka- 
nawha, who had been murdered by some Ottawas in 
French interests. Near this spot lived Queen Ali- 
quippa, not far from the mouth of the Youghiogeny, 
and they made their way to the royal wigwam. 
Washington then paid a visit of ceremony to this 
princess, and gained her favor by a present of an old 
watch-coat and a bottle of rum, which appeared to 
be highly prized by that potentate. They reached 
the residence of Gist, on the Monongahela, on Jan. 
2d, 1754 ; and Washington parted from him, on hia 
homeward journey, crossing the Blue Ridge. He de- 
layed for a single day at Belvoir, and reached Wil- 
liamsburg on the 16th of the month ; where he de- 
livered a full and accurate account of his mission to 
Governor Dinwiddle. 

This expedition became the foundation of the for- 
tunes of Washington, and made him the object of 
general applause in Virginia. The great courage and 
singular perseverance amid the perils of the wilder- 
ness, which he had displayed, when surrounded by 
fearful dangers among ruthless savages, and in the 
prosecution of his journey through almost impassable 



OF GEORGE WASHINGTON. 57 

routes ; bis extraordinary hardihood in sleeping on 
the ground in inclement weather and in the open air, 
in the vicinity of a treacherous foe ; aU pointed him 
out as a man of remarkable capacity, energy, and 
resolution ; and gave him the reputation which placed 
him subsequently on an exalted pinnacle of respon- 
sibility and fame. 

The Chevalier de St. Pierre returned a courteous 
answer to the letter of the Governor of Virginia, and 
said that he would conform to the instructions of his 
general, and with that inflexible resolution which 
could be expected of the best officer. The Governor 
and Council of Virginia came to the conclusion, that 
this punctilious letter was but evasive ; and that the 
French were preparing to take military possession of 
the Ohio Territory in the spring. Captain Trent was 
sent to raise one hundred men to finish the fort beffuu 
by the Ohio Company : and he is supposed to have 
been chosen, notwithstanding his former failure, on 
account of his being the brother-in-law of George 
Crogan, the Indian trader, who was thought to have 
much influence with the Indians. Washing-ton was 
authorized to raise a force at Alexandria ; to procure 
the supplies for the fort at the Fork, and ultimately 
to take command of both companies. He was di- 
rected to consult George Crogan and Andrew Mon- 
tour, the interpreters, who were looked on as oracles 
in Indian matters. 

Dinwiddle endeavored to combine all the gover- 
nors against the common foe ; and to efltect alliances 
with the Cherokees and Cahawbas ; the Otto was and 
Chippewas being already in the French interests. 



58 THELIFEANDTIMES 

The colonists made various excuses for not sustaining 
the purposes of the governor ; he convened the House 
of Burgesses, but met grievous disappointment from 
the mistaken pride of independence which inflamed 
them. Some questioned the king's right to the ter- 
ritory, and others objected to granting supplies, lest 
such means sliould be looked upon as an act of hos- 
tility. The governor complained bitterly of their re- 
publican way of thinking, and said that "he feared 
that it would render them more and more difficult to 
be brought to order." The event proved that he was 
no false prophet. The number of troops required 
was three hundred, and these were to be divided into 
six companies, of which the command was ofiered to 
"Washington, who declined ; and Colonel Joshua Fry, 
a man of influence and ability, obtained it. Washing- 
ton was appointed second in command. A bounty of 
land offered by Governor Dinwiddle, greatly assisted 
the recruiting, which had at first made very slow 
progress. But it was more difficult to get officers 
than soldiers; and many of those appointed did not 
appear. Washington was left almost alone to manage 
and train the raw recruits. In his emergency, he 
made Yan Braam, his old master of fence, captain ; 
and set off for the new fort on the Ohio, on the 2d of 
April, 1754, with two companies, containing about 
one hundred and fifty men. Colonel Fry was to 
C(mduct the rest. While on the march, Washington 
was joined by Adam Stephens, an officer who was 
destined to serve with him some years after this 
period. He could with difficulty obtain the necessary 
horses and waoons at Winchester, and was oblJiied 



OF GEORGE WASHINGTON. 59 

to impres*} them. The farmers gave their worst 
horses, and these were of little service. With great 
toil the cannon and baggage were transported ; but 
the hope was, that at Will's Creek Trent would have 
pack-horses in readiness. But Trent proved himself 
to be a worthless person, and failed to fulfil his com- 
mission. There was a report of his capture by the 
French, but the rumor was entirely false. 

Captain Contrecceur had sailed down the Venango 
with a thousand men, and had taken possession of 
the fort — the whole garrison not consisting of fifty 
men. The news of its capitulation was carried to 
Washington by an ensign. He was accompanied by 
two warriors, one of whom conveyed an address from 
the half-king to Washington, and the other a belt of 
wampum for the Governor of Virginia, which Wash- 
ington forwarded with one of the warriors. He re- 
tained the other warrior, whom he sent to the half- 
king with messages of a conciliatory nature for the 
chiefs and sachems of the Six United Nations. He 
called a council of war, in which they resolved to 
fortify themselves at the store-houses of the Ohio 
Company, at the mouth of Kedstone Creek, and there 
watch the enemy. Washington sent sixty men in 
advance, and wrote to Dinwiddle for mortars, gre- 
nades, and heavy cannon. He now experienced the 
trials of his new situation, and gained a foretaste 
of the perplexities and difliculties which, in future, 
av.'aited him from the foe, and from the inefiicienc}' of 
his own friends in legislative councils. Trent and 
Frazier began to be severely censured. The first was 
etigmatized as a coward. The other was not so guihy 



60 THELIFEANDTIMES 

in his neglect of duty, and he was recommended by 
"Washington as adjutant at a future period. The dif- 
ferent colonial assemblies were very slow at this time 
in voting supplies — a fault which produced incal- 
culable injury to their interests in this war with 
France, and still more in the days of the American 
Revolution. 



OF 0EORGE WASHINGTON. 61 



CHAPTER VII. 

THE MARCH TO " LITTLE MEABOWS" CORRESPONDENCE WITH DIW- 

WIDDIE AND LORD FAIRFAX — THE DISINTERESTED VIEWS OP 
WASHINGTON — FRENCH EMISSARIES — MESSAGE FROM THE SACHEM 
THE GREAT MEADOWS, AND SKIRMISH WITH JUMONVILLE — ITS 

RESULTS — Washington's first battle — scarcity op provi< 

SIGNS — death of colonel FRY, AND PROMOTIONS — CAPTAIN 

MACKEY AND THE INDEPENDENT COMPANY PRAYERS IN CAMP — 

FIGHT AT GREAT MEADOWS, AND SURRENDER OF FORT NECESSITY 

THANKS VOTED BY THE HOUSE OF BURGESSES TO THE TROOPS — • 

EXCEPTIONS MADE, AND REASONS FOR THEM END OF WASHING- 
TON'S FIRST CAMPAIGN. 

Washington commenced his march towards "Will's 
Creek on April 29th, 1754, at the head of one hun- 
dred and twenty men. It was found difficult to travel 
through rugged mountains, and the dismal forest 
known by the epithet of the Shades of Death ; but 
on the 9th of May the party, after experiencing im- 
mense difficulty in dragging the artillery of Colonel 
Fry, arrived at Little Meadows. Various incidents 
occurred to indicate that the French were in motion ; 
and "Washington soon discovered that they were con- 
structing a fort in the place he had noted as the best 
adapted for that purpose. He suspected that the French 
emissary, La Force, was acting the part of a spy, as 
he had been seen lurking about near Laurel Hill 
with four soldiers ; and in the reports of presents be- 
6 



62 THELIFEANDTIMES 

stowed upon the Indians, he found tliat the sachem was 
in his interests, and on his way with fifty warriors to 
meet him. On their arrival at the Youghiogeny, after 
excessive toil, Washington found leisure to write to 
Governor Dinvviddie, respecting the embarrassing state 
of affairs, in consequence of the want of liberality in 
the Virginia Government, with respect to the provin- 
cial soldiers and ofiicers, who received less pay than 
the regular army, and had to fare entirely on salted 
provisions. JSTothing prevented the officers from 
throwing up their commissions, but their reluctance 
to endure the shame of shrinking from danger. These 
were also the sentiments of Washington. He did 
not object to serve voluntarily, but he declared that 
he would rather toil as a day-laborer for a subsistence, 
when necessity should demand it, than serve under 
such disadvantageous circumstances. He, however, 
remarked that, possessed as he was of a constitution 
hardy enough to endure the severest trials, he would 
not flinch, and in an}- case would be the last man to 
leave the Ohio. In a letter to Lord Fairfax he mani- 
fested his indifference to performing the service of a 
volunteer, or otherwise as might be required ; and 
characterized tlie motives which influenced him as 
being pure and noble, his only aim being the service 
of his king and country. 

Hearing that the foe were in the act of crossing the 
Youghiogeny, at the distance of eighteen miles from 
his post, he took up his position in the Great Mea- 
dows, cleared away the bushes, and declared, after 
making an intrenchmeut, that it was "a charming 
field for an encounter." Six men were missing; whea 



OF GE0R.1E WASHINGTON. 6'6 

the roll was called, for desertions had already begun 
lie detached seventy-five men after La Force, whom 
he regarded as subtle and mischievous ; and, deter- 
mined to anticipate the hostile force that had hovered 
around him for some days, he took forty men, and 
with them reached the camp of the half-king at sun- 
Bet. He was received with great apparent manifesta- 
tions of friendship ; and with a brother sachem, Sca- 
rooyadi, or Monacatoocha, accompanied Washington 
to the trails he had discovered, and putting two In- 
dians on them, they traced them to a French encamp- 
ment. He came upon them suddenly, with the half- 
king and his warriors, in perfect silence. The French 
ran to their arms, and a brisk conflict took place during 
the quarter of an hour, while the party received the 
enemy's fire. The balls whistled around "Washing- 
tv)n, killing one man and wounding three others. 
The French lost several men and then retreated; and 
being hotly pursued, twenty-one were taken captive, 
and but a single Canadian escaped to carry the 
tidings back to the fort. Washington prevented the 
Indians from scalping the prisoners. He considered 
his own escape as providential. Ten of the French 
were killed ; one was wounded. Jumonville, the 
French leader, fell at the first fire, being shot through 
the head. He was an officer of merit, and his fate was 
much deplored. An ofl&cer named Drouillon, and La 
Force, were the most important of the prisoners who 
were taken. They pretended that they were advanc- 
ing to summon Washington to leave the French territo- 
rie?^ ; but a letter of instruction to Jumonville proved 
the contrary to have been the fact. They were in 



64 THELIFEANDTIMES 

reality spies, and suffered the penalty of prisoners of 
war ; were conducted to Great Meadows, and sent to 
Governor Dinwiddle, then at Winchester, with a cau- 
tion to be on his guard in his communications with 
them. 

"Washington was now in a perilous situation, as 
Contrecoeur had nearly a thousand men at the fort 
under his command, exclusive of Indians. lie wrote 
to Colonel Fr}- at Will's Creek, to send on reinforce- 
ments ; but he also declared his determination to 
fight with numbers very unequal, and not to yield to 
the foe. The sachem was intent on the fight, and 
would have all his allies presewt. He sent them the 
scalps of the slain Frenchmen, with hatchets and 
wampums, and summoned his warriors to meet him 
at Redstone Creek. He left them for his home, 
promising to send for the Mingoes and Shawnees, 
and on the 30th to bring back thirty or forty warriors 
to the camp. Washington wrote to Dinwiddle on 
the 29th, saying that he expected to be attacked; and 
that if he should hear of his being beaten, he would 
be told, at the same time, that they had performed their 
duty, and had fought to the last. Washington, in a 
letter to a relative at this period, is said to have de- 
scribed the late affair, and his escape from harm: "I 
heard the bullets whistle, and, believe me, there is 
'jonieihing charming in the sound." Horace Wal- 
;t()le termed Washington "a brave braggart;" and the 

rfiair having reached the ears of King George II., he 
-aid: ''He would not say so if he had been used to 

hear' many" — an opinion confirmed by Washington 
himself after he became more experienced in deadly 



OF GEORGE WASHINGTON. 65 

encounters. Being asked at a later period if he had 
ever said so, he replied, coolly; " If I did, it was when 
I was young." 

In consequence of the mismanagement of the com- 
missariat, provisions began to be scarce in the Eng- 
lish camp, and the troops were six daj'S without flour. 
Washington wrote to Crogan to send all that he 
could furnish, which was the more needed as several 
Indian allies, with their wives and children, had 
arrived. Colonel Fry had expired at Will's Creek, 
and was succeeded by Colonel Innes, of ]!^orth Caro- 
lina, in the command. This appointment gave satis- 
faction to Washington, as he was an experienced 
officer, and had served at the siege of Carthagena 
with his brother Laurence. But the colonel never 
came into the camp. By the death of Fry, Washing- 
ton was really in command of the regiment. He ap- 
pointed Captain Adam Stephens major, and wrote to 
Dinwiddie in favor of Van Braam. The palisading 
was completed which had beer, commenced some 
time before, and this work they called Fort Neces- 
sity, from their being pushed for provisions during its 
construction. Fry's men at length came up, and then 
the force amounted to three hundred. .Dr. James 
Craik, a Scotchman, and destined to become one of the 
mos' confidential friends of Washington, accompanied 
them as the surgeon of the troops. An independent 
comjtany of one hundred men, under Captain Mackey, 
was expected soon to arrive. The name " indepen- 
dent" did not please Washington, who, in writing to 
Dinwiddie, wished to know whether Mackey would be 
under his "command or independent of it, and hoped 
6 * E 



66 THELIFEANDTIMES 

he would have more sense than to insiat on any unrea- 
sonable distinction ;" for, though he had his commis* 
sion from the king, and a wide difference, so far as 
salary was concerned, existed between them and the pro- 
vincials, yet the latter were as loyal to their sovereign, 
" and as willing to sacrifice their lives for their coun- 
try's good as the others." Washington's early mili- 
tary instructor, Adjutant Muse, was made major of a 
regiment, and brought with him nine swivels and a 
supply of ammunition. Montour, the Indian interpre- 
ter, now a provincial captain, accompanied him. Mr. 
Gist was ordered to bring on the artillery, and sixty 
horses were sent to Will's Creek for the transportation 
of more provisions. 

Washington, with great ceremony, and wearing a 
medal prepared by the governor expressly for such 
occasions, distributed the presents and wampums 
among the Indian chiefs, and decorated them and the 
warriors with the medals which their father, the King 
of England, had sent them. The son of Queen Ali- 
quippa was among them, and was admitted into the 
war counsels of the camp at her request, receiving 
the name of Fairfax, while the sachem received that 
of Dinwiddle. The sachems returned the compli- 
ment, and named Washington Conotaucarious — an 
epithet the import of which is now unknown. Wash- 
ington, at the suggestion of William Fairfax, had 
public prayers read in his camp, and performed the 
office of chaplain with great propriety of demeanor. 
At a later period, in the struggles of the colonies for na- 
tional existence, he prohibited profane swearing; and 
we shall find him, pn another occasion, bowing the 



OF GEORGE WASHINGTON. 67 

knee before his Maker, and invoking the Divine di- 
rection. Some French deserters informed him that 
the fort at the fork was at length completed, and was 
called Duqueme, in honor of the Canadian governor; 
that it was garrisoned with five hundred men, a re- 
inforcement of two hundred was expected, and in a 
fortnight nine hundred more ; and that it was proof 
against all attacks, except that of bombs discharged 
from the land side. 

Washington manifested the utmost discretion in 
not coming into collision with Captain Mackay on 
any matter involving military authority, and wrote to 
Dinwiddle to prescribe minutely their relative posi- 
tions. The captain's men, on the march to Eedstone 
Creek, would not be permitted by him to work on 
the road, unless they received a shilling sterling a 
day ; and as Washington would not pay this sum, he 
undertook to finish the road with his own men, and 
left the captain and his force as a guard at Fort Ne- 
cessity. With great perseverance and diligent labor, 
warily guarding against surprise, the advance was 
gradually made, and the road constructed. At Gist's 
establishment, thirteen miles from Fort Necessity', he 
was informed that ample reinforcements had been 
sent to Duquesne, and that a detachment would be 
dispatched against him. He at once halted, in- 
trenched, called in the foraging parties, and requested 
Mackay to join him as soon as possible. On his arri- 
val he summoned a council of war, in which it was 
agreed that a retreat should be made immediately. 
Washington gave up his horse, on this occasion, to 
assist in transporting heavy munitions of war; and 



68 THELIFEANDTIMES 

he paid the soldiers for carrying his own baggage. 
The officers followed his example ; and in a sultry 
day, the roads being rough, and the men subsisting on 
short commons, pinched with hunger, they received 
no aid from the captai-n's men, the "king's soldiers," 
who would render no assistance in the labors of the 
retreat. They reached Great Meadows on the 1st of 
July, and here the exhausted Virginians could carry 
the baggage and swivels no further. An intrench- 
ment then was made ; reinforcements were sent for 
from Will's Creek, and supplies of provisions pro- 
cured. 

Captain de Villiers, broth er-m-law of Jumonville, 
had sallied from Fort Duquesne with five hundred 
French and several hundred Indians, intent on re- 
venge and slaughter. He fired into the works of 
Washington at Gist's settlement, and finding them 
empty was about to return, when a deserter told him 
that the troops of Washington were in a starving 
condition at Great Meadows. He then immediately 
advanced thither. During this interval Washington 
was doing his utmost to fortify Fort Necessity, which 
had not been done by Mackay and his men. Trenches 
and palisades protected it, and its dimensions were 
one hundred feet square, in a level, grassy plain near 
the middle of the Great Meadows. It was two hun- 
dred and fifty yards wide, and a breastwork was 
erected by the soldiers, inspirited by the exertions 
and example of their chief; who, in this moment of 
peril, asked no aid of the South Carolina men, but 
himself assisted in felling trees, hewing branches, and 
piling up the trunks as a bulwark against the ap- 



OF GEORGE WASHINGTON. 69 

preaching enemy. The Indian allies at this critical 
moment abandoned him. being offended at their sub- 
jection to command, disheartened at the feeble pre« 
parations, and because their chief was not sufficiently 
consulted. Their real motive was to put their fami- 
lies in a more secure retreat. A wounded sentinel in- 
formed the troops that the French were upon them. 
Washington drew up his men on level ground, and 
musketry was soon heard at a distance. He fell back 
into the trenches, and ordered his men to fire as soon 
as they could see the foe. Thus an irregular skir- 
mishing was kept up during that day. Under the 
cover of the woods, the French continued to fire at 
the distance of sixty yards. The rain also fell rapidly, 
and rendered the guns in many cases unfit for use, 
dispiriting and half drowning the men. At 8 o'clock 
in the evening the French asked a parley, and fearing 
that it might be merely to examine the fort, Washing- 
ton at first hesitated. The request was again made; 
and it was desired that an officer, under their pro- 
mise of safety, might be sent to them. Jacob Van 
Braam was the only one who could perform the ser- 
vice, as the engineer, Chevalier de Peronney, who was 
familiar with French, was then disabled by wounds. 
The terms of surrender, twice brought by Van Braam, 
were rejected; and the third time he came with writ- 
ten articles in French, which, as no writing materials 
were to be had. Van Braam translated viva voce. The 
rain still fell copiously, and he read from a paper to 
which he held a candle, the light of which was al- 
most extinguished by the water. The translation 
was made, one article after another, in the presence 



70 THE LIFE AND TIMES 

of Washington and his officers, who endeavored to 
unravel the meaning from the imperfect English of 
the captain. A clause by which it was stipulated 
that all the military stores and arms were to remain 
in the possession of the French, was objected to and 
changed. The chief articles, as understood by Wash- 
ington and his officers, were, that no annoyance on 
the part of the French or Indians would obstruct their 
return to the settlements, and that they should retire 
with the honors of war, and take everything with 
them but the artillery, which should be destroyed ; 
that their eftects should be left at some secret place 
until sent for; that they should promise, on their 
honor, not to construct any buildings or improve- 
ments on the land of the King of France during one 
year; that the prisoners should be restored, and that 
till then Van Braam and Stobe should remain as 
hostages. Washington agreed to these terms, and 
his men accordingly retired with the honors of war; 
but had scarcely begun their march when the Indians 
began to annoy them. He sent a few men after seve- 
ral stragglers who had been wounded, and remained 
at Fort Necessity, near which he encamped. In the 
engagement which had taken place, twelve men were 
killed, and forty-three wounded, out of three hundred 
and five, officers included. The number of killed 
and wounded in Mackay's company is unknown. 
The loss of French and Indians is supposed to have 
been far more considerable. 

The fatigued and disheartened troops, encouraged 
by Washington, at length reached Will's Creek, and 
there found abundant provisions and military stores. 



OF GEORGE WASH INGTON. 7l 

Here he left thera ; and in company with Mackay, 
proceeded to the governor at Williamsburg, to render 
his military report. The Virginia House of Burgesses 
returned a vote of thanks to Washington and his 
officers for their bravery, and gallant defence of their 
country; and a distribution of eleven hundred dol- 
lars was made to the privates in the expedition. Major 
Stobe and Jacob Van Braam were excepted from the 
vote of thanks ; the former on the charge of cow- 
ardice, the latter on account of his misrepresentation 
as an interpreter. Crogan and Montour were found 
to be different from what they pretended. The two, 
with all their boasting, had not sent thirty warriors 
into the camp as fighting men. Such was the begin- 
ning of Washington's military career. He had 
brought his first campaign to a close, and had dis- 
played the prudence, address, and courage of a vete- 
ran commander. Amid dangers arid sufferings 
scarcely ever exceeded, he had both gained the es- 
teem and secured the obedience of the soldiers, under 
the most trying and perilous circumstances. 



?2 THHLIFEANDTIMES 



CHAPTER VIII. 

SOTERNOR DINWIDDIE AND aiS VIETTS OF THE WAR — BIFFICPLTIEa 

WITH THE ASSEMBLY GRANTS FROM ENGLAND, AND CHANGES IN 

THE ARMY — WASHINGTON THROWS UP MIS COMMISSION — HIS RETIRE- 
MENT TO MOUNT VERNON WAR BETWEEN THE ENGLISH AND FRENCH 

BRITISH PLAN OF THE CAMPAIGN GENERAL BRADDOCK APPOINTED 

COMMANDER COMMODORE KEPPEL AND HIS SQUADRON THE EFFECT 

OF WARLIKE PREPARATIONS ON WASHINGTON HE JOINS THE STAFF 

or BRADDOCK HIS FLATTERING RECEPTION, AND APPRECIATION BY 

THE GOVERNORS IN CONGRESS PREPARATIONS FOR THE EXPEDITION 

— MEETING OF OFFICERS AT ALEXANDRIA — SIR JOHN ST. CLAIR AND 
HIS THREATS — THEIR EFFECTS — GEORGE CROGAN AND HIS INFLU- 
ENCE CAPTAIN JACK. 

The French having relaxed their efibrts at Fort 
Duqnesne, a letter was conveyed by an Indian to the 
commander of the English, to say that two hundred 
men were there, and as many expected ; that detach- 
ments of men and Indians had been sent off, and all 
that remained in the fort were Contrecceur and the 
guard of forty men and five officers ; that a hundred 
Shawnees, Mingoes, and Delawares could surprise and 
take the//uard, and, by shutting the sally-gates, render 
the fort certain of being captured. This letter was 
Bent to Crogan, who dispatched it to the Governor oi 
Pennsylvania, by whom it was sent to Governor Din- 
■widdie. The latter entertained the wild project of 
taking the fort. He therefore wrote to Washington, 



OF G E U a P: WASHINGTON. 73 

who early in the month of August had joined his 
regiment, and assisted in the erection of Fort Cum- 
berland, to march to Will's Creek, and leave word 
for the officers to follow as soon as they had obtained a 
complement of men. Such a scheme, at that season 
of the year, and under such circumstances, was known 
by "Washington to be perfectly chimerical ; and his 
letter to a member of the House of Burgesses at this 
time, which doubtless Dinwiddle read, had the efiect 
of causing him to give up the rash undertaking. 

Dinwiddle was entirel}^ ignorant of military affairs. 
Some of the North Carolina troops having found 
none of the necessary supplies when they reached 
Winchester, at once disbanded and went home. The 
House of Burgesses were dilatory in granting sup- 
plies ; and they thought the best way would be, to 
have such contributions furnished by act of Parlia- 
ment, as were necessary to arrest the advance of the 
French ; and also by imposing a poll-tax of two and 
sixpence a head, independently of the Assembl}^. 
Certain grants were made by the House of Burgesses 
in October, 1754, for the public service; an allowance 
of twenty thousand pounds ; and half that sum, with 
arms for the troops, were sent from England. 

As difficulties had often occurred in reference to 
military precedence, among troops of various kinds, 
the governor reduced them all to companies, in such 
a manner that no officer in a res^iment was hisrher 
in rank than a captain. Washington therefore left 
the service; and soon afterward Governor Sharpe, of 
Maryland, desired to secure his assistance. He sent a 
spirited letter to Colonel Fitzhugh, exhibiting hi» 
7 



74 THELIFEANDTIMES 

views of military matters, and his disinclination to 
hold a commission inferior to that which he held be- 
fore. Al)out this period an order came from England 
which commanded the officers who bore the king's 
commission to take j^recedence in rank over those 
who were commissioned by the governors of the pro- 
vinces ; and provided that, when serving with a gene- 
ral and field-officers commissioned by the king, the 
general and field-officers of the provinces should give 
them the precedence. These arrangements did much 
to prepare the way for colonial rebellion and subse- 
quent independence. Washington was much mortified 
by Dinwiddle's refusal to give up the French prisoners 
as had been stipulated ; and when visiting Williams- 
burg, was grieved to find La Force in prison. His 
remonstrance was lost on the obstinate Dinwiddle, 
who would not liberate the captives. La Force after- 
ward broke prison, and escaped about thirty miles 
from Williamsburg. Asking a countryman how far it 
was to Fort Duquesne, he was betrayed, brought 
back, and chained in a dungeon. All this operated in- 
juriously on Stobe and Van Braam, who were also 
in durance. Stobe ultimately escaped into the coun- 
try ; but Van Braam, who likewise fled, was conducted 
back, and afterward shipped to England. 

Washington, on resigning his connection with the 
army, paid a visit to his mother, and rendered all 
the service in his power to her and his famil}'-, faith- 
fully discharging the duties devolving on him. He 
then gave himself up entirely to agricultural pur- 
suits, at his beautiful estate of Mount Vernon ; but 
his country called him again to arms, and she never 



OF GEORGE WASHINGTON. 75 

uttered her voice to him in vain. The French am- 
bassador, the Marquis de Mirepois, had not been de- 
ceived by the vain dissimulation of the British minis- 
try, and he returned indignantly to France. It \va8 
found that war was inevitable between the French 
and English ; and in 1755 a plan of campaign was 
devised by the Government of Great Britain, having 
a fourfold object in view ; namely, to expel the 
French from Nova Scotia, to dislodge them from 
Crown Foint on Lake Charnplain, from the fort 
erected on Niagara, and to drive them from the fron- 
tiers of Pennsylvania, as well as to recover possession 
of the valley of the Ohio. 

The Duke of Cumberland was commander-in-chief 
of the British army at that time ; and by him Major- 
General Edward Braddock was appointed generalis- 
simo of the American forces against the French. This 
officer was a veteran, and the duke considered him as 
admirably fitted for the post, as he was an excellent 
tactician — which, however, was a different species of 
qualification from that required of a commander in a 
new and unsettled country. General Braddock was 
faultless on parade, a brave officer, and an experi- 
enced soldier; but one of his defects was an unbending 
obstinacy and pertinacity of purpose. He was, how- 
ever, appointed to command the expedition which 
was the most important of all the campaigns that 
were destined to be fought on the frontiers of Vir- 
ginia and Pennsylvania. The quartermaster-general, 
Lieutenant-Colonel Sir John St. Clair, had studied 
the field of operations before the arrival of Braddock. 
The road, which lay through the region where Wash 



76 THELIFEANDTIMES 

ington hart already campaigned, seemed to him to be 
almost impassable by an army ; and he wrote to Gov- 
ernor Morris, of Pennsylvania, to have the road cnt 
or repaired to the head of the Youghiogeny, and 
another opened from Philadelphia to aid the trans- 
portation of supplies for the army. The governor 
applied to the Assembly, and had a commission ap- 
pointed to make a survey, at the head of which was 
the Indian trader, George Crogan. Commodore 
Keppel, with his squadron of two ships-of-war, and 
several transports, had anchored in the Chesapeake; 
the land forces which they brought consisted of two 
regiments of five hundred men each, a train of artil- 
lery, and the necessary munitions of war. The regi- 
ments were commanded, the one by Sir Peter Halket, 
the other by Colonel Dunbar; and they were to be 
increased to seven hundred men by the addition of 
Virginia companies which had been enlisted. Alex- 
andria was the place of rendezvous for the ships and 
levies. Indian allies were to be employed, and Mr. Gist 
led General Braddock to believe that four hundred 
Indians would join him at Fort Cumberland. Sir 
John St. Clair had contracted with the settlers at the 
foot of Blue Eidge for two hundred wagons and 
fifteen hundred horses, to be ready at Fort Cum- 
berland early in May ; and Governor Sharpe waa 
to send a hundred wagons. Keppel furnished four 
cannon for the attack of the fort, and thirty seamen; 
and all the arrangements, according to Captain Ro- 
bert Orme, an aid-de-camp of Braddock, seemed to 
promise tiie greatest success. 

General Braddock having proceeded to Alexandria, 



OF GEORGE 'WASHINGTON. 77 

found the Virginia levies arrived, and the troops dis- 
embarked. The sounds of warlike preparation roused 
the martial spirit of "Washington, in the peaceful 
shades of Mount Vernon ; and he felt an ardent de- 
sire to join the expedition as a volunteer. This dis- 
position reached the ears of General Braddock, who 
had been informed of his merits ; and he directed 
Captain Robert Orme to invite Washington to join 
his staff; who wrote in such a generous and kindly 
spirit to him, that it created a friendly feeling between 
them ever afterward. The appointment offered no 
command nor emolument, and required a good deal 
of expense and self-sacrifice ; nevertheless, it would 
obviate the disputed questions of militar}'' rank, 
gratify his passion for arms, and give him practical 
experience in a well-organized corps, admirably dis- 
ciplined, and under a skilled tactician. His mother 
did her utmost to prevail on him to decline the ser- 
vice, and having ascertained his value at home, de- 
sired him not to expose himself to danger; but with 
all his respect for her, he could not resist the appeal 
to his warlike sympathies. He reached the head-quar- 
ters of General Braddock at Alexandria, where he 
was heartily welcomed by his young associates. Cap- 
tains Orme and Morris, aides-de-camp of the general, 
Washington was pleased with the flattering recep- 
tion he received from the general ; and found him 
honorable and generous, though haughty and obsti- 
nate, and in matters of military discipline very exact. 
Four governors were then assembled at Alexandria, 
representing Massachusetts, New York, Maryland, 
and Pennsylvania; and Washington was highly ap- 
7* 



78 TBELIFEANDTIMES 

preciated by them all. In a grand council held on 
April 14th, 1755, the general's commission was read, 
and his instructions from the king in reference to the 
necessary fund for the expenses of the war. The gov- 
ernors found it impracticable to obtain any such fund 
from their assemblies, having tried the experiment 
in vain ; and they gave it as their opinion that the 
preparations for military expenses in America could not 
be had without the aid of Parliament ; they suggested 
that the ministers should find some way of compelling 
contributions ; and in the meantime, that the general 
should use his credit with Government to obtain 
means for current expenses to carry through the ex- 
pedition. The congress closed, and but few wagons 
had arrived. Recollecting the difficulties of the way, 
the huge preparations of war, and the heavy mate- 
rials which were to be transported across the moun- 
tains, Washington was struck with wonder and dis- 
may. " If our march be regulated by the slow move- 
ments of the train," said he, "it will be tedious, very 
tedious indeed." He was in the right; but Braddock 
smiled sarcastically at the apprehensions of the inex- 
perienced young officer. 

Sir John St. Clair, in the meantime, became in- 
censed because the Government road had not been 
commenced ; and declared that the want of roads and 
of the provisions which had been promised by Penn- 
sylvania, might ruin the expedition. He raved fu- 
riously, and threatened to burn the houses of the inha- 
bitants, if defeated by the French ; and declared that 
he would go through the province with sword in 
band, and treat Pennsylvania as a disaffected and 



OF (5E0RGE WASHINGTON. 7& 

rebellious province. This ebullition produced such an 
efFeot on the commissioners, that they wrote to Gov- 
ernor Morris, urging him to set people to work upon 
the road, and send flour to the mouth of the Canaco- 
cheague River; and in reply, by his secretary, the 
orders were given to proceed, adding that the ex- 
penses should be paid at the next meeting of the As- 
sembly. George Crogan was, in the meantime, commis- 
sioned to convene at Aughquick, in Pennsylvania, all 
the mixed tribes of the Ohio, to distribute wampum 
belts among them, and induce them to join General 
Braddock on his march. Crogan engaged to enlist 
a large number of Indians; and he secured the ser- 
vices of a resolute band of hunters, under the com- 
mand of Captain Jack. This person was a remark- 
able character, who had been a captive among the 
Indians for many years, knew their customs, was re- 
garded as one* of themselves, and whose name in- 
spired terror' into their minds. He promised to join 
the forces of Braddock on the march, and Crogau 
engaged to attend in company with them. 



80 THELIFEANDTIMEB 



CHAPTER IX. 

GENERAI, BRADDOCK — HIS DIFFICULTIES ABOUT MEANS OF TRANSPOR- 
TATION ASSISTED BY BENJAMIN FRANKLIN — DR. HUGH MERCER 

CAPTAIN GATES THE ROADS — SIR JOHN ST. CLAIR — PATRIOTISM OP 

WASHINGTON HE IS SEIZED WITH A VIOLENT FEVER — HE RECOVERS 

-REACHES THE CAMP — PLAN OF ATTACK ON FORT DUQUESNE — 
WASHINGTON'S ADVICE — BLIND OBSTINACY OF BRADDOCK — RUINOUS 
CONSEQUENCES — DUNBAR — DEFEAT AND DEATH OF GENERAL BRAD- 
DOCK — THE AGGRAVATED DISGRACE — EXULTATION OF CONTREC(EUR. 

Very great inconvenience was experienced by 
General Braddock, in consequence of the failure of 
the Virginians to fulfil their contracts. He had the 
good fortune, however, to meet with Benjamin Frank- 
lin, who had been sent out by the Assembly of Penn- 
sylvania, ostensibly in the capacity of postmaster for 
the transmission of letters between the general and 
provincial governors, but in reality to make an at- 
tempt to remove the impression which he entertained 
of their being opposed to the war, as they had neglected 
to fulfil his orders. Franklin undertook to procure 
wagons for the expedition, and a contract was made 
with him for four hundred and fifty conveyances, with 
four horses for each of them, and for fifteen hun- 
dred pack-horses. The patriotic Franklin, with that 
promptness for which he was remarkable, obtained 
the wagons on his own responsibility from the Penn- 
sylvania farmers, and they arrived in due time; when 



OF GEORGE WASHINGTON. 8J 

General Braddock remarked, that that was the only 
instance in which he had not experienced deceit 
and Rtiavery on the part of the colonists. Franklin, 
in his autobiography, makes mention of the blind 
confidenoa with which Braddock hoped to take 
Duquesne, Niagara, and Frontenac; for he did not 
think the first would detain him over four days, at the 
furthest. 

That officer entertained no conception of the diffi- 
culties of such a march, through a wild country, with 
hostile Indians on every side, with so much bag- 
gage and with so many superfluities. Indeed, "Wash- 
ington, who had joined him at Fredericktown, and 
was appointed one of his aides-de-camp, assured him 
of the great hardships which must be suffered in an 
attempt to cross the mountains in carriages. He 
advised him to use pack-horses ; and declared that the 
most hazardous part of the expedition would consist 
in the transportation. Braddock, however, persisted 
in his own opinions. The general cut a dashing 
figure, with his chariot, and his body-guard galloping 
in attendance ; but he soon found that it would not 
answer, and then gave them up. On the 19th of May 
the arrival of levies swelled the force to fourteen hun- 
dred men, besides two provincial companies, number- 
ing thirty men each. Captain Stewart commanded 
the Virginia light-horse ; and one of those who com- 
raanded two companies was Horatio Gates, in the 
capacity of a captain. Drs. Hugh Mercer and James 
Craik were attached to the expedition. 

At Fort Cumberland Washington had an oppor- 
tunity of seeing a fully disciplined army, and the 

F 



82 THELIFEANDTIMES 

mode of camp life. The army lay at the fort for somo 
time, detained by the want of supplies, and because 
the roads were not yet completed. Mr. Peters re- 
quired guards to protect him from the Indians, in 
making the road to Philadelphia. But the general 
could not see the necessity for them ; nevertheless, 
guards were at length found to be indispensable. 
The Indian reinforcements so confidently expected 
never arrived; and Crogan brought but fifty warriors 
from Aughquick. These were treated liberally, and 
presents were made them; all went well for a time, 
but the warriors had brought their families with them, 
and the women were fond of loitering about the camp. 
Some of these were possessed of considerable charms, 
and the officers were said "to be scandalously fond 
of them." Jealousies at length arose, and the squaws 
were prohibited from approaching the camp ; but this 
precaution was not sufiicient, and they had to be sent 
back to Aughquick. Several warriors went with 
them, and the three Delaware chiefs returned to the 
Ohio. Washington had been told by Crogan that 
the warriors deserted because they were slighted in 
not being employed ; but the governor was pertina- 
cious, and adhered to his own opinion, in spite of all 
the representations which were made him. Frequent 
disputes had arisen between the general and Wash- 
ington, on account of the former representing that 
the army contractors were without honor, in conse* 
quence of their having failed in fulfilling their under 
takings, and he applied the same stigma to the coun« 
try at large. 

Washington was seized with a violent fever on the 



OF GEORGE WASHINGTON. 83 

third day of the march ; so that he was compelled to 
ride in a covered wagon. The general consulted him 
in private, and then he urged him to leave the bag- 
gage and heavy artillery behind, with a body of troops ; 
and to send a number of pieces of light artillery, with 
some chosen soldiers, to make an attack on Fort 
Duquesne. In support of this advice, he represented 
that the French were then very weak on the Ohio, 
but were expecting additional troops daily. He as- 
serted that a rapid movement might enable them to 
carry the fort ; but, if the army were to remain toge- 
ther, the march would be delayed, the rains would 
make the roads impassable, the French would be rein- 
forced, and the contest would become involved in doubt 
and hazard. The general approved of the advice. In 
a council of war, it was resolved that twelve hundred 
men, headed by Braddock, should assault Fort Du- 
qliesne, while the rest of the regulars, and the heavy 
baggage, should proceed under Colonel Dunbar. At 
the great crossings of the Youghiogeny, the illness of 
Washington prevented him from going further, as the 
physician thought it would be attended with danger to 
his life. With great reluctance he obeyed the com- 
mand of the general to remain where he then was, and 
he gave him his word of honor that he should be able 
to rejoin the army before it reached the fort. Orme 
promised to inform him by letter of all that passed in 
the meanwhile. The faithful servant of Washington, 
John Alten, was also taken ill at the same time ; 
which added to his annoyance, as he was unable to 
render his master any assistance in his siokness. 
Washington joined the general, however, in a covered 



84 THELIFEAND TIMES 

wagon, the day before the battle on the Monongahela, 
and, though he was yet very weak, assumed the duties 
of his position. To obtain a plan of attack, the sur- 
rounding country had been reconnoitred. The fort 
and camp were on the same side of the river, but an 
interval of two miles was between them. The Monon- 
gahela was on the left, and on the right a mountain 
of considerable altitude. The route selected was to 
cross the river opposite the camp, pursue for about 
five miles the western bank of the river, cross it to 
the eastern side, and march on the fort. Lieutenant- 
Colonel Gage was to cross, advance to the second ford, 
and recrossing, protect the main army in its pas- 
sage. Washington rejoiced to behold a splendid army 
arrayed in the glittering panoply of war; and as he 
gazed upon it, it inspired him with new life and vigor, 
and his ailments were forgotten. 

The advance under Colonel Gage crossed on the 9tH 
of July, 1775, before daybreak. Sir John St. Clair, 
with two hundred and fifty men, with implements 
and two six-pounders, followed to prepare the way for 
the artillery and baggage. All at length had crossed, 
and the army waited at a small stream called Frazier's 
Eun, for the general to dispose the troops in order of 
march. Gage was ordered to lead the advance; St. 
Clair, the working-party and the six-pounders; and 
the general was to bring up the main body; while 
the Virginian troops were to form the rear. Half a 
mile from the river the ground was covered with grass 
and low bushes, with no opening except the road, 
flanked by the deep dells, hid by thickets and um- 
brageous trees. 



OF GEORGE WASHINGTON. 83 

Washington had desired the general to send for- 
ward the Virginia rangers, or Indian scouts, to ex- 
plore the vicinity ; but he persisted in his own plan 
of operations, and rejected the counsel. The result 
was as might have been expected. When about to 
join the main body, the advance had been fired into, 
and fiercely attacked. Succor was sent on to thera, 
by the vanguard of about eight hundred men. The 
rest, four hundred in number, protected the baggage. 
Fearful yells now resounded through the forest, amid 
continual discharges of fire-arms. The advance had 
been attacked by French and Indians. The French 
commander fell, but the rifle of the Indian was at 
work ; and the grenadiers were either killed, or driven 
back in confusion on Gage's men, who were ordered 
to fix bayonets and prepare for battle. The savages, 
uttering horrible yells, fired in safety from the ravines, 
and it could only be known where they lurked from 
the smoke of their guns. The troops fired wherever 
they saw the smoke, and could not be held in re- 
straint, nor made to obey orders, being frightened 
more by the yells than by the rifles of the invisible 
enemy; and they continued shooting at random, by 
which means they produced but little execution. Tho 
unequal contest became more and more desperate. 
Many ofllicers and men fell; Col. Gage was wounded; 
the advance retreated upon Sir John Clair's force, 
which was equally panic-stricken ; and Col. Benton 
with the reinforcements, while drawing out his men, 
could not hold them in check. When the retreatina 
detachments fell upon them, they were put to con- 
fusion. 
8 



t56 THELIFEANDTIMES 

General Braddock in vain endeavored to rally his 
troops, and ordered the officers to marshal them in 
small divisions ; but the soldiers refused to obey, 
while the Virginia troops, from behind the trees, imi- 
tating the tactics of the foe, picked off many of them, 
and afforded some protection to the helpless regulars. 
Washington advised the general to make the regu- 
lars pursue the same plan ; but he formed them into 
platoons, and those of them who fired from behind 
the trees he struck with the flat of his sword ; while 
some of the Virginians who fought from their shelter, 
were shot by their own soldiers aiming wherever the 
emoke was seen to arise. The most gallant bravery 
was displayed by the English officers ; they dashed 
forward in groups to inspirit the troops ; but many 
were shot down by the savage enemy, and some even 
by their own men. The slaughter became dreadful ; 
while the yells of the savages increased as they rushed 
forward, brandishing their tomahawks, with which 
they scalped their miserable victims. The aides-de- 
camp Orme and Morris were soon disabled, and the 
whole duty of conveying orders devolved upon Wash- 
ington. He behaved with the most consummate 
bravery, in the midst of dangers the most imminent 
and fearful ; having had two horses shot under him, 
and his coat riddled with four bullets. Hastening to 
the main body, to bring the artillery into action, he 
sprang from his horse, turned and pointed a field- 
piece against the enemy, and directed its charge into 
the woods. All was in vain. The men deserted the 
guns. Sir Peter Halket was shot at the head of his 
regiment. The unfortunate Braddock was still in 



OF GEORGE WASHINGTON. 87 

the centre of the field, brave to the last; but bis for- 
titude was useless, and it was impossible to retrieve 
the fortunes of the day. The majority of the Vir- 
ginians were slain ; the general's secretary fell at his 
side ; five horses were shot under him ; and a bullet 
pierced his arm and his lungs. At length Braddock 
fell to the earth, and was carried off the field in a 
tumbril. The rout then became general, and nothing 
but the avarice of the conquerors detained the victo- 
rious savages from the pursuit. The army, thus dis- 
comfited, continued its flight, until it crossed the 
river. 

Out of eighty-six ofiScers, twenty-six were slain and 
thirty-six wounded ; and the killed and wounded, in 
rauk and file, were not less than seven hundred. A 
hundred men halted near the ford, where the wounded 
general lay with his disabled aides-de-camp and seve- 
ral officers, still able to give orders, and hoping to 
keep his position till he was reinforced. Some of the 
rneu were advantageously posted near him, but most 
of them had deserted him. Washington, in the mean- 
time, proceeded to the camp of Colonel Dunbar, forty 
miles distant, to obtain the escort of two companies 
of grenadiers, with wagons, provisions, and hospital 
stores. When he arrived in the camp he found that 
the evil tidings had preceded him; and as he returned 
with the convoy and supplies, at thirteen miles dis- 
tance, he met Gage conveying General Braddock and 
the wounded officers. They rested one day at Dun- 
bar's camp, and on the 13th resumed the march, and 
reached the Great Meadows the same night. Brad- 



88 THELIFEANDTIMES 

dock remained silent during the first evening, and 
through the day succeeding the battle; and only 
uttered an occasional ejaculation amid his agonies. 
He died on the 13th at Great Meadows. At that spot 
he was buried with funeral honors ; and Washing- 
ton read the burial service over his grave. 

After the funeral of General Braddock, "Washing- 
ton sent a message to Fort Cumberland to procure 
horses for the disabled ofiicers, and suitable quarters 
for them on their arrival. He wrote meanwhile to 
his mother and brother, praising the valor of the Vir- 
ginians, and condemning the cowardice of the regu- 
lars. Dunbar might have retrieved the day, having 
had fifteen hundred men under his command ; but 
his camp became confused when tidings of the defeat 
reached him ; he destroyed his military stores to faci- 
litate his flight; and then hastened with his retiring 
forces to Philadelphia. 

The field from which Washington had escaped pre- 
sented an awful spectacle ; the dead and dying were 
stripped and plundered by white and red men alike; 
and the murderous tomahawk and the scalping-knife 
terminated many a life which hung by a thread. 
This disgraceful defeat agreeably surprised the French 
general, De Contrecceur, who was in transports at 
the unexpected success. The force which had been 
sent out was not the main army, but consisted of 
seventy-two regulars, a hundred and fifty Canadians, 
and six hundred savages, of whom Captain de Beau- 
jeu was the leader. The whole number of slain, in- 
cluding French and Indians, did not exceed seventy. 



OF GEORGE WASHINGTON. 89 

This unfortunate defeat of Braddock's created, for 
the first time, the impression that British troops had 
not that irresistible prowess which had universally 
been ascribed to them ; and became one of the most 
powerful causes in producing the steady and unflinch- 
ing resistance made by provincial troops against a 
regular army, which afterward occurred during the 
Revolution. 



90 THE LIFE AND TIMES 



CHAPTER X. 

riSHI.VGTOlN IN COMMAND — INDIAN BATAGES — PANIC AT WINCH!*' 
TER — THE SAVAGES RETURN TO THE OHIO — THE FATE OF THB 
EXPEDITIONS AGAINST NIAGARA AND CROWN POINT — MILITARY 
PRECEDENCE — THE DECISION OP GENERAL SHIRLEY — EARL OF 

LOUDOUN DANGERS AT GREEN WAY COURT GREAT ALARMS AT 

WINCHESTER TENDER SYMPATHIES OF WASHINGTON ILLIBE- 

RALITY OF THE VIRGINIA PRESS — ITS EFFECTS — APPRECIATION OP 
WASHINGTON BY THE SPEAKER OF THE HOUSE OF BURGESSES — 
PARSIMONY OF THE ASSEMBLIES — WASHINGTON'S ADVICB ABOUT 

THE FORTS — GREAT INEFFICIENCY OF THE MILITARY DINWID- 

DIE's AMBIGUITY — FALL OF THE FORT AT OSWEGO. 

"Washington reached home on the 26th of July, 
1755, having suffered much, both in health and for- 
tune, by the campaign. He complained, in a letter 
written about this time, of the ill success of his former 
expedition ; in which, after serving with zeal, and 
meeting with reverses, his commission was taken from 
him after his return ; that then, in his second expedi- 
tion with Braddock, he had lost everything. Little 
did he imagine the benefit his country should after- 
ward derive from his experience. Volunteer compa- 
nies now began to be formed, to repel the hostile in- 
roads of the French and Indians; and Washington 
was again ready to serve his country, but not on the 
same terms. He therefore received a commission, by 
which he was appointed commander-in-chief of al] 
Uie forces raised or to be raised in the colony ; three 



OF GEORGE WASHINGTON. 91 

hundred pounds were voted him on account of his 
late losses in battle ; and in a letter to his mother he 
afterward expressed his zeal for the public service. 
Governor Dinwiddle, it was thought, ceased to regard 
Washington at this time with friendly feeling, on ac- 
count of his popularity in obtaining this command, 
which he had intended for Colonel Lines ; and it is 
worthy of note, that Washington was honored with 
this early mark of the confidence of Virginia, not 
from any splendid triumph which he had achieved, 
but on account of his persevering fortitude amid re- 
verses, and for his bravery in the time of trial; as 
well as for his wisdom in suggesting advice which, 
if followed, would have saved the army. 

Washington fixed his head-quarters at Winchester, 
and here he was brought again into relations with Lord 
Fairfax, lieutenant of the county, who had organized 
a troop of horse, and previously aided Washington 
with his counsels and his sword. An express arrived, 
that the frontier was harassed by a body of Indians, 
who were murdering the inhabitants, approaching 
Winchester, and thrciitening to invade the valley 
of the Shenandoah. In the absence of Washington 
at Williamsburg, Lord Fairfax sent the militia of 
Fairfax and King William's county to the defence of 
Winchester. Washington soon returned, and had it 
not been that only twenty-five of the militia could be 
induced to march, would have proceeded at once to 
attack the savages. He met with great difiiculties 
from want of co-operation, and was compelled to im- 
press wagons for the service ; the military laws also 
required to be modified, but applications to the gov- 



92 THELIFEANDTIME8 

ernor for this purpose were at that time fruitless. 
The fright and panic at Winchester were intense be- 
yond description ; the Indians were said to be only 
twelve miles distant, and the people fled for their 
lives. The most exaggerated accounts were brought 
in ; and Washington found, as he sallied forth with 
forty men and the militia, that the whole alarm was 
occasioned by the vociferations and pistol-firing of 
three drunken troopers, whom he sent back as pri- 
soners. The Indians, about one hundred and fifty in 
number, being glutted with carnage, spoils, and cap- 
tives, had returned to their homes on the Ohio, and 
all was again quiet on the frontiers. 

A reward was offered by the colonial governor for the 
head of Shingis, who was said to be the chief author 
of these ravages ; but the old sachem had been true 
to the cause, and Scarooyadi, his successor, imitated 
him in his loyalty to his English brothers. Washing- 
ton cultivated Indian friendships as being of immense 
benefit to the service, without which he felt himself 
unable to cope with the savage foe. 

About this period Washington was informed of the 
fate that attended the other enterprizes which had 
been undertaken by the English. That against Nia- 
gara failed, after the defeat of Braddock. General 
Shirley, who commanded the troops, found them 
stricken with alarm ; many of them deserted ; the long 
autumnal rains overtook and disheartened the remain- 
der; and with military incapacity the enterprise was 
eventually abandoned. Seven hundred men were 
left in garrison at Oswego. General Johnson, with a 
body of six thousand New York and. New England 



OF GEORGE WASHINGTON. 93 

troops, conducted the expedition against Crown Point, 
and marched as far as Lake George. He was in- 
formed that a French array, under the Baron Dieskau, 
was marching against him ; and having erected a fort, 
he sent forward one thousand men to oppose the 
foe. The discharge of heavy musketry quickly gave 
evidence of an encounter, and the firing became hot- 
ter as the men under Colonel Williams returned in 
full retreat. Soon the fugitives, pursued by the In- 
dians, yelling the war-whoop, appeared ; and the 
camp was overwhelmed with terror, when Dieskau 
was seen at the head of his forces. The artillery con- 
tinued to fire upon the French and Canadians ; the 
English recovered from their panic, and did dreadful 
execution with the artillery and small arms ; the 
breast-works were scaled ; a medley fight ensued ; 
the enemy were routed ; and the brave baron was 
among the slain. Johnson was wounded in the ac- 
tion, and did not therefore follow up his victory. 
He built a stockaded fort, and called it William 
Henry ; but when it was completed, it was too late 
to proceed against Crown Point. The English Gov- 
ernment subsequently conferred on him a baronetcy 
and five thousand pounds. 

Thus ended all the projected expeditions. Wash- 
ington then devoted his attention to the militia laws, 
and by his eftbrts several important improvements 
were made tending to perfect the military discipline 
of the troops. They were taught, also, to imitate the 
Indian method of fighting; and new roads were 
opened for the transmission of supplies and reinforce- 
ments. Questions of military precedence still occurred 



94 THELIFEANDTIMES 

to annoy Colonel Washington; and a certain Captaiu 
Dagworthy, a Maryland officer who had served in 
Canada, who had received a king's commission, but 
had since commuted for half-pay, refused to obey the 
orders of any officer, of whatever rank, who was com- 
missioned by a provincial governor. Differences arose 
in consequence of this declaration, and Washington re- 
frained from mixing himself up with the dispute; but 
he determined that, if a Maryland captain should take 
precedence of him, he would resign his commission. 
The whole matter was to be referred to General Shir- 
ley. Washington, accompanied by several officers, tra- 
velled through Philadelphia and New York to Boston. 
He was successful in his mission, and Dagworthy was 
compelled to yield the precedence to the commander- 
in-chief of the Virginia forces. Shirley was soon 
after recalled, being superseded by General Aber- 
crombie, who brought two regiments with him. A 
plan long since entered into rendered the Earl of 
Loudoungeneralcommandantin America, with almost 
vice-regal power ; by which arrangement, the other 
military men being made subordinate, the ministry 
hoped to unite the colonies under military rule, and 
compel the assemblies to contribute a common fund, 
subject to the control of one dictatorial power. 

The Earl of Loudoun now became Governor of 
Virginia, and colonel of the regiment. The campaign 
was to commence in the following spring. Washing- 
ton was said at this time to have been a suitor of 
Miss Phillipse, who was subsequently married to his 
friend and fellow aide-de-camp. Captain Morris. Ma- 
rauders had entered the valley of the Shenandoah; 



OF GEORGE WASHINGTON. 95 

persons had been murdered by the Indians near Win 
Chester ; and it was suggested to old Lord Fairfax 
that his abode at Greenvvay Court was no longer 
secure, and that his scalp would be particularly ac- 
ceptable to the Indians. He would not depart, how- 
ever, and the place was fortified by a numerous reti- 
nue of white and black attendants. Washington 
found the inhabitants of Winchester filled with dis- 
may, and resolved to organize a company, and put 
himself at the head of it. He sent to Fort Cumber- 
land with orders for a detachment from the garrison, 
and complied with the advice of Lord Fairfax, and 
other officers, to appeal to the patriotism of the men, 
and thus procure musterings in private. Only fifteen 
persons of all those enrolled made their appearance : 
in the meantime the deepest alarm prevailed, and the 
forests could only be traversed by experienced hunters. 
The captain of a scouting party and ten men had 
been slain in the Warm Spring Mountain ; and burn- 
ing houses, famishing garrisons, and tales of massacre 
increased the general horror. 

The inhabitants of Winchester were wrought up to 
the highest pitch of terror, and in their deep distress 
they looked to Washington for relief. He was deeply 
touched by this display of feeling. Women held up 
their children, and besought him to save them ; and 
their supplicating sorrow, with the heart-moving peti- 
tions made by the men, afiected him in such a manner 
that he declared he could die a sacrifice for them, if 
by so doing he could secure their deliverance. Yet, 
in the midst of all this alarm, the Virginia news- 
papers, while amplifying on the frontier troubles. 



06 THELIFEANDTIMES 

threw the blame on the army, its officers^ and its 
commander. Such an effect had this deep injustice 
on the mind of Washington, that the existing danger 
only prevented his giving up his command. Some 
complimentary letters, however, were sent him ; the 
Speaker of the House of Burgesses recognized him 
as being the only person who was able to bring affairs 
to a prosperous issue; and he desired him still to 
retain the command. The parsimony displayed at 
this time by the House was astonishing. When the 
Assembly voted twenty thousand pounds, and an ad- 
dition of fifteen hundred men, the appropriation was 
applied by Dinwiddle in a way almost useless, in 
erecting forts through the Allegheny Mountains, from 
the Potomac to South Carolina ; neglecting the pru- 
dent advice of Washington, who urged the impolicy 
of their construction at so great a distance from each 
other as to render them inefficient. His plan was to 
erect them within eighteen miles of each other, that 
they might preserve a surveillance over the adjacent 
country ; and to be garrisoned with eighty or a hun- 
dred men each, so as not to leave the fortresses too 
weak, should detachments from them be required. 
He also recommended that a fort should be built at 
Winchester, whose central position would render it 
a fit place for military stores ; where the families of 
commanding officers could reside, and it thus be made 
a frontier citadel. He further advised that forts be 
erected upon the frontiers at convenient distances, three 
or four in number; and he condemned the use of Fort 
Cumberland as being out of the way, and therefore 
inefficient. Many other useful counsels were giv-vii by 



OF GEORGE WASHINGTON. 97 

the yonng commander, but neglected by Dinwiddle, 
^\•llO persisted in a frontier line of twenty-three forts. 
Nevertheless, he erected the fort at Winchester recom- 
mended by Washington. During the summer the 
works at Winchester were commenced, and carried 
on with as much expedition as could be expected, 
considering the imperfect nature of the organization. 
In honor of the commander-in-chief, it was named 
Fort Loudoun. The other forts were begun, and 
drafts from the militia sent to garrison them. The 
service was perilous, and several persons were mur- 
dered in a defile by the Indians, a short time after 
Washington, who superintended these operations, 
had passed through. 

In an autumnal tour made with Captain Hugh 
Mercer, Washington attempted to raise a force with 
which to oppose the roaming Indian bands; and such 
was the inefficient state of the militia, that after wait- 
ing a few days, only five men could be mustered for 
this service. Matters were but little improved where 
the militia took up iarms. Their term of service had 
half expired, as December was the limit fixed by the 
act of the Legislature ; provisions had been lavishly 
wasted ; half the time was taken up in marching out 
and returning home ; cattle were unceremoniously 
seized for the use of the troops, which naturally in- 
creased the popular disaffection. Numerous instances 
<:ceurred in which the want of defence in the garri- 
sons was apparent. Indians, at one fort, seized seve- 
ral children and bore them off". Another fort was 
surprised, and some of the garrison put to death; 
and when Washington visited a certain fort, the meii 
9 G 



98 THE LIFE AND TIMES 

were found firing at a mark, in this way wasting the 
ammunition which might be necessary for the protec- 
tion of their lives. He describes himself as setting 
out, on one occasion, from Catawba with thirty men, 
who were chiefly officers, who made continual sport 
of order, circumspection, and vigilance; and he re- 
marks that it was fortunate no enemy appeared, or 
their lives might have been lost through the noisy 
turbulence of these ^'■gentlemen soldiers.'' 

The service of the year 1756 was full of perplexity 
to Washington, in consequence of the enigmatical 
manner in which Dinwiddle conveyed his orders; and 
80 ambiguous were these orders in reference to Fort 
Cumberland, which Washington had recommended 
should be abandoned, that their import was incom- 
prehensible. Dinwiddle at length took ofi^ence at 
some remarks uttered by Washington in reference to 
frontier service, and made such a representation to 
Lord Loudoun respecting Fort Cumberland, that an 
order was issued to keep it manned. The consequence 
of this resolution was a withdrawal of garrisons from 
the frontier forts, and of most of the troops from 
Winchester — a course full of imprudence, and at- 
tended with much loss and expense. 

The secret was that Dinwiddle bore Washington a 
secret grudge, because the popular voice had made 
him commander; and he wished to disgust him with 
the service, in order that he might resign. Had it 
not been for the Winchester panic, and the real 
danger in which the country was involved, he might 
have succeeded in his purpose; but to Lord Loudoun 
Washington entrusted the future fate of Virginia, 



OF GEORGE WASHINGTON. 99 

The fort at Oswego was besieged by the French 
General Montcalm on the 12th of August, and on 
the 14th it capitulated. The terms of submission 
were barbarously violated, and many of the British 
soldiers were murdered by the savages. General 
Webb, who went to the assistance of the fort, returned 
to Albany after he had heard of its capture ; and 
Lord Loudoun, who had made preparations for a great 
northern campaign in the spring, went into winter 
quarters in New York. While the relief to Oswego 
was postponed, an army of ten thousand men was 
loitering in an idle camp in Albany. Mismanage- 
ment in every department of the public service was 
the calamity of those times ; it remained for unfold- 
ing circumstances to bring about a better state of 
afi'airs, under the propitious agency and influence of 
Washington. 



100 THE LIFE AND TIMES 



CHAPTER XI. 

dinwiddie and lord loudoun — washington's relations with 

them his advice respecting the reduction of fort duquesnk 

— failure of the expedition against crown point — washing- 
ton's ill health — he recovers, and resumes command — expe- 
ditions in the north — expedition against fort duquesne — 
Washington's first interview with mrs. custis — his opiniow 

AND advice respecting THE LINE OF MARCH — FORT DUQUESNE — 

THE ENGAGEMENT COLONEL BOSQUET — WASHINGTON PLANTS THE 

ENGLISH STANDARD ON THE RUINS OF THE FORT — HIS MARRIAGE 
WITH MRS. CUSTIS. 

Washington had reason to suspect that Governor 
Dinwiddle had impressed Lord Loudoun unfavorably 
against him ; and that erroneous opinions were en- 
tertained at head-quarters respecting the state of mili- 
tary afiairs under his command. A meeting was to 
be held at Philadelphia in March, 1757, between Lord 
Loudoun and the Southern governors, in reference to 
the defence of the provinces : and Washington having 
requested permission to attend it, obtained it with 
a very ill grace from the governor. A month before 
the meeting, Washington sent his lordship a letter in 
which he explained the inefficient state of the militia, 
the errors which led to confusion, and an account of 
the imperfect state of defence. The purport of the 
letter was, the ambiguity of the orders received; and 
the various mistakes and errors for which Washing- 
ton became answerable in consequence of it; the 



OF GEORGE WASHINGTON. ll)l 

motives which influenced his conduct in again enter- 
ing the service ; and the hopes which he entertained 
from the appointment of Lord Loudoun. The recep- 
tion which Washington met with in Philadelphia, 
and his being consulted about an attack to be made 
on Fort Duquesne, evinced the impression which hia 
letter had produced on his lordship. This attack he 
advised to be made at the same time with that on 
Canada ; but the plan adopted was different, and by 
this means the defences of Virginia would become 
weaker than before. 

"Washington failed in obtaining a king's com- 
mission; and his instructior)s were to co-operate with 
Colonel Stanwix, to whom he would, in a measure, 
be subordinate. Colonel Stanwix, a gentleman of 
great worth, commanded a regiment on the Pennsyl- 
vania frontier. The long-meditated reduction of 
Crown Point on Lake Champlain, was changed for 
that of the strongly fortified post at Louisburg, on 
Cape Breton. Lord Loudoun set sail for Halifax with 
six thousand men, in July, 1757, to join Admiral Hol- 
bourne with six thousand troops, eleven ships of the 
line, and a fleet of transports. The junction was made 
at Halifax ; but the French had anticipated them, and 
Admiral de Bois de la Mothe had reached Louisburg 
with a large naval and land force, which, with the 
well-fortified and well-provisioned works, rendered it 
imprudent for Lord Loudoun to attempt anything. He 
returned without a triumph to New York ; while Admi- 
ral Holbourne made a vain display of his fleet within 
two miles of Louisburg, endeavoring to draw on an 
ejigagement, which La Mothe declined. A storm 
^ 9* 



102 THE LIFE AND TIMES 

subsequently shattered his vessels, and he returned 
ignominiously to England. Thus ended the great 
northern compaign, which justly excited the derision 
of the enemy. The rest of this year Washington 
spent in defending the frontiers with an inadequate 
force; during which the Shenandoah Valley was 
almost emptied of inhabitants. Washington had 
reason to think that false representations had been 
made to the governor against him ; and he wrote a 
spirited letter, full of noble sentiments, which had 
little effect with that narrow-minded official. The 
numerous vexations which he was compelled to en- 
dure, made inroads on the strong constitution of 
Washington; and by the advice of his friend and 
physician, he returned to Mount Vernon. Dinwiddie 
sailed for England in January, 1758, little regretted 
by the colonists, with a character stained by imputa- 
tions of extortion, avarice, and delinquency, in regard 
to the disposal of certain sums sent by the British 
Government, for which he had never accounted. 

The health of Washington improved by relaxation, 
and he again assumed the authority at Fort Loudoun. 
Mr. John Blair had charge of the government until 
the arrival of Mr. Fauquier, the successor of Din- 
widdie. William Pitt had succeeded to the British 
Cabinet, and the command in America devolved on 
Major-General Abercrombie. This officer made a 
threefold division of the forces; one of which was to 
march northward under Major-General Amherst, to 
aid the fleet under Boscawen in the reduction of 
Louisburg and Cape Breton ; another was to be led 
against Ticonderoga and Crown Point, on Lake 



OF GEORGE WASHINGTON. 103 

Champlain, by Abercrombie ; and Brigadiei-General 
Forbes was to reduce Fort Dnquesne. The colonial 
troops were to be put on the same footing with tha 
regulars, and to be of equal rank. "Washington re- 
solved to remain in the service till after the capture 
of Fort Duquesne ; and the forces of Virginia were 
now increased to two regiments, both destined for 
that expedition. They contained one thousand men 
each ; one of which Washington was to command, 
the other was under Colonel Byra. 

It is important to trace briefly the two expeditions 
against Louisburg and the island of Cape Breton, 
and against Ticonderoga and Crown Point. 

Major-General Amherst, with Brigadier-General 
"Wolfe, who afterward became famous, embarked in 
the fleet of Admiral Boscawen at Halifax, in the end 
of May, 1758 ;' and on July 2d, reached the Bay ot 
Gabarres, a few miles from Louisburg, whose garri- 
son consisted of twenty-live hundred regulars, three 
hundred militia, and four hundred Canadians and 
Indians. Six ships of the line, and three frigates, 
were anchored in the harbor. An attempt was made 
to land in boats on the 8th of June, under Brigadiers 
Wolfe, Whitmore, and Laurens. The landing waa 
effected with great gallantry by Wolfe, amid the surf 
and the discharge of artillery. The other divisions 
also landed, and Louisburg was attacked. Amherst 
was cautious, and a desperate defence was determined 
on byDrucour, who commanded the besieged. Wolfe, 
by a vigorous night attack, took Light-Horse Point, 
and thereby greatly aided Amherst. Three of the 
largest of the enemy's ships were fired by a bomb- 



104 THE LIFE AND TIMES 

shell on July 2l8t, two others were afterward boarded, 
sword in hand. The enemy were compelled at last 
to capitulate; and Captaiti Amherst, brother of the 
general, conveyed to England eleven pairs of colors 
taken at Louisburg, which were suspended in St. 
Paul's Cathedral. 

Abercrombie, with six or seven thousand regulars, 
and nine thousand provincials, encamped on Lake 
George. After the return of Major-General Putnam, 
whom he had sent to reconnoitre, he prepared to ad- 
vance against Ticonderoga, in Lake Champlr.n; and 
the forces, on the 5th of July, were embarked in one 
hundred and twenty-five whale-boats, and nine hun- 
dred batteaux, and the artillery on rafts. When they 
came upon the enemy behind a breastwork, the 
French burnt their camp and retreated. The troops 
remained steady, but the guides being ignorant, they 
became confused in the forest. A brisk engagement 
ensued with a detachment of the French, in which the 
foe was routed. Lord Howe, however, fell, and the 
command devolved on Abercrombie, who retreated 
to the place where they had landed. Montcalm had 
called in the outposts, and fortified himself strongly. 
The engineers assured Abercrombie that the works 
were in reality very weak. He accordingly ordered 
an attack, and in the storming of the works, the 
troops exhibited the most heroic valor. But all was 
in vain; they were shot down as they reached the 
parapet, and in repeated assaults were repelled with 
terrible loss. Two thousand killed and wounded de- 
monstrated the deadly energy and valor of the French 
troops. The English were then drawn off, and the 



OF GEORGE WASHINGTON. 105 

disheartened Abercrombie re-embarked the troops and 
returned across the lake. Frontenacwas taken from 
the French by Colonel Bradstreet, about the same 
period. 

The expedition appointed to reduce Fort Du- 
quesne proceeded slowly. Brigadier-General Forbes, 
the commander-in-chief, was detained at Philadel- 
phia ; and Colonel Bouquet was stationed at Rays- 
town, in Pennsylvania, where about four thousand 
troops had been collected. Washington disciplined 
his troops at Winchester, consisting of nineteen hun- 
dred regulars, and seven hundred Indians. The force 
was in need of almost every article of equipment, and 
he had vainly represented to the authorities the desti- 
tute condition of the troops. He set out on his way 
to join General Forbes at Williamsburg, and to in- 
form the council of the state of affairs, accompanied 
by Bishop, the well-trained military servant left with 
him by General Braddock. On this journey he fell 
in with a certain Mr. Chamberlain at York River, 
and accepted an invitation to dine with him, with 
considerable reluctance, as he was in haste to arrive 
at Williamsburg. At this gentleman's residence he 
met a lady named Custis, whose charms produced a 
deep impression on his heart. She was a fascinating 
and blooming widow, the daughter of Mr. John Dan- 
dridge. Her husband had been three years deceased, 
and had left her two young children, and a consider- 
able fortune. The dinner being over. Bishop made 
nis appearance with the horses; but Washington 
found the time pass too agreeably, and he deter- 
mined to postpone his departure until the next 



106 THE LIFE AND TIMES 

morning. He then resumed the way to his destina- 
tion. The residence of Mrs. Custis was at White 
House, not far from Williamsburg; and he subse- 
quently employed the time to such advantage, and 
pressed his suit so successfully, that the widow ac- 
cepted him, a regular engagement was the conse- 
quence, and the marriage was agreed upon to take place 
as soon as Fort Duquesne should be reduced. Wash- 
ington was triumphant in love as in war; and at this 
time his gallant bearing and handsome person must 
have rendered him very attractive to the most fasti- 
dious and exacting of the fairer sex. 

Washington was impatient to march, and the more 
so as he feared the Indian allies would desert him if 
the delay were prolonged. He equipped his men in 
the Indian hunting-garb, and Colonel Bouquet thought 
this would be a good attire for the expedition. Wash- 
ington regretted that the line of march was not by 
Braddock's road, but by a new one to Fort Duquesne, 
on the usual tracks of the Indian traders. He showed 
that the new road could be opened only by extreme 
labor, whereas the other could be repaired in a short 
time, and their destination could be reached in thirty- 
four days ; so that by the middle of October the 
entire campaign would be concluded. His advice 
was of no avail ; September found him yet inactive 
in Fort Cumberland ; while sixteen hundred men 
were sent on the advance from Raystown, to work on 
the road, and the time was thus fleeting uselessly 
away. 

With great toil the road was made to Loyal Han- 
noQ, near Laurel Hill Colonel Bouquet detached 



OF GEORGE WASHINGTON. 107 

Major Grant with eight hundred picked men, and 
Bome of Washington's company, in Indian garb, under 
Major Lewis. This enterprize was conducted with 
little prudence. The savages were apprised of their 
approach ; the reveille was sounded ; and having now 
reached the fort, an observation of the works with a 
plan, was made in view of the garrison. The infatua- 
tion of the British commander was augmented by the 
silence of the fort, as not a single gun was fired. 
This was taken as an evidence of fear, when suddenly 
the garrison sallied forth, and the flanks of the Eng- 
lish were attacked by an Indian ambuscade. Bravery 
was now of little service ; the most dreadful carnage 
ensued in tlie whole detachment. Captain Bullitt made 
a barricade with wagons, and his men were posted 
behind them. The savages pursued the fugitives 
when tbey had completed their havoc and plunder; 
and on their advance Bullitt and his men, at a signal 
before agreed upon, opened a destructive fire upon 
the foe, by which they were checked. Bullitt and his 
troops then made a feint of surrender to the enemy ; 
and when within eighty yards poured a volley among 
them, and charged with the bayonet. The Indians 
fled, and the routed detachments returned to Colonel 
Bouquet's camp at Loyal Hannon, having lost twenty- 
one officers and seventy-three privates. Colonel 
Forbes complimented Washington at Raystown on 
the conduct of the Virginia troops; and Captain Bul- 
litt was promoted. Washington received the com- 
mand of a division, to keep the advance of the main 
body, and repel the onset of the Indians. 

The commander of Fort Duquesne,when the British 



108 THE LIFE AND TIMES 

troops were within a day's march of it, embarked at 
night in boats, blew up the fort, and by the light of 
the burning ruins sailed down the Ohio. Washing- 
ton mounted the British flag on the remains of thia 
fortress on the 25th of November, 1758. The army 
collected and interred the bones of their comrades 
who had fallen in the defeat of Braddock, and the 
dilapidated works were again put in a posture of de- 
fence, and called Fort Pitt, in honor of the British 
minister. It was defended by two hundred men de- 
tailed from Washington's regiment, and the name 
has since been changed to Pittsburg. By the fall of 
this fort the French power on the Ohio was destroyed; 
danger vanished from the frontiers: and a treaty of 
peace was concluded with the Indiana between the 
lakes and the Ohio. In the quiet that ensued, Wash- 
ington laid down his commission, hung up his arms, 
with the applause of the people, and, amid a joyous 
gathering of his relatives and friends at the White 
House, his marriage with Mrs. Custis took place on 
January 6th, 1759. 

The British minister, encouraged by the triumphs 
'jf the past, planned the entire subjugation of the 
French possessions in Amerii^a, and resolved to expel 
that nation from Canada. The strongholds of the 
province were Quebec, Niagara, and Ticouderoj,'^ 
against each of which an expeditjoo wy^ prepared. 



OP GBOEQE WASHINGTON. 101) 



CHAPTER XII. 

WASHINQTOl*' IN THE HOUSE OF BURGESSES — HIS RESIDENCE AI 

MOUNT VEKNON A DESCRIPTION OF HIS CHARACTER — ENJOT- 

MSNTS AND PUHSUITS IN RURAL LIFE — WASHINGTON'S INDUSTRY 
— HE EXPLolfCS THE DISMAL SWAMP — COURTLY HABITS IN THB 
OLD DOMINIO* — WASHINGTON THE MODEL OF A VIRGINIA GEN- 
TLEMAN. 

Washing?'^ remained three months at the White 
House with his bride, after their union. On his 
arrival at W^'.liamsburg to take his seat in the House 
of Burgesses his appearance was greeted with nume- 
rous testimoTiials of respect, and the speaker pro- 
nounced a e»*logy on the services which he had ren- 
dered to his -oountry. "When he rose to reply, he could 
not articulate a word; but blushed and stammered. 
The smiliniT speaker opportunely replied : " Sit down, 
Mr. Washington, your modesty equals your valor, 
and that surpasses the power of any language I pos- 
sess." During the remainder of the session, Wash- 
ington attended the House frequently, and afterward 
with his wife took up his abode in the peaceful 
shades of Mount Yernon. Before this time he had 
felt a desire to visit England ; but now he describes 
himself as " fixed in his seat, with an agreeable part- 
ner for life, and hoping to find more happiness in 
retirement than he ever experienced in the wide 
and bustling world." His wife's former husband had 
10 



110 THE LIFE AND TIMES 

left two children, a large landed property, and forty- 
five thousand pounds in money ; one-third of which 
Mrs. Washington possessed in her own right ; the re- 
mainder was divided in equal shares between the 
two children, one a boy of six, and the other a girl 
of four years of age. 

A decree of the General Court appointed Washing- 
ton guardian of the property of the children — a trust 
which he always discharged with great faithfulness. 
He felt at this period intense fondness for the pursuits 
of agriculture. He loved the pleasant retirement of 
Mount Yernon, and his beautiful mansion commanded 
a splendid view of the Potomac. Woods yet remained 
on the estate, and dells with inlets, and streams of 
water; while here and there, farms tilled with dif- 
ferent sorts of culture, and having each their peculiar 
class of laborers, variegated the scene. Within the 
ample grounds were the haunts of the deer and the 
lurking places of foxes; through which, in his youth- 
ful days, he had followed the chase with Lord Fair- 
fax, amid all the woody region lying from Mount 
Yernon to Belvoirs, on the picturesque shores of the 
Potomac. Here, too, the beloved brother whom he 
had loved, but who was deceased, had wandered with 
him in their boyhood days. Such remembrances were 
dear to his heart; and there, free from the restless 
dreams of ambition, it was his desire to spend his 
years in the happy seclusion of rural scenery. Here 
he who afterward became the great American Fabius, 
the father and deliverer of his imperilled country, spent 
several of his happiest years. He was not yet widely 
celebrated by the trumpet of fame, nor had he gained 



OF GEORGE WASHINGTON. Ill 

an exalted niche in her temple. The muse of history 
had not traced his virtues on the undying page, as 
the pride and glory of his country ; yet here, in this 
retired spot, were then slumbering the sparks, which 
were destined afterward to kindle into a torch whose 
light should cheer and guide his country in the 
darkest hour of her coming disasters. The mind 
loves to linger in the pleasant shade and rural scenea 
in which such eminent virtues had their nursery. 

Washington was already opulent. His ample for- 
tune received the accession of a hundred thousand 
dollars by his marriage. His style of living, at this 
period, was dignified, A coach and four, with live- 
ried postillions, was the usual conveyance of his wife 
and female visitors; though he himself always ap- 
peared on horseback, and kept the finest stud of 
horses in the vicinity. It should be remembered that 
Virginia, in those days, was an aristocratic commu- 
nity, as became the descendants of the cavaliers. A 
high and chivalrous spirit prevailed, and considerable 
fondness for ostentation distributed the wealth of the 
rich around them. Hosts of attendants for almost 
everj' purpose thronged a Virginia mansion of that 
era, the rich fabrics and commodities of London 
were imported ; and luxury generally prevailed. 

Washington kept his own accounts, and set an ex- 
cellent example of diligence and attention to business. 
To his negroes he was always kind, but he kept them 
at work. He once watched the labor of four negroes, 
who, as carpenters, were sawing timber; observed 
what time was needed to get the tools ready; how 
long it required to clear away the branches, and then 



112 THE LIFE AND TIMES 

to saw the tree; and by this scrutiny the capability of 
every man was fully put to the test. So he once as- 
sisted his man Peter several days in the invention of 
a plough; and when a mill was said to have fallen in 
a thunder-storm, he put himself at the head of his 
servants, laboriously wheeling and shovelling gravel 
while the rain fell in torrents, to set bounds to the 
pressure of the water. He was remarkably fond of 
the chase, as was mentioned on a former page, and 
few enjoj-ed a hunting dinner with greater zest. Hia 
custom was to rise early ; and he was in the habit of 
lighting his own fire when he rose before daylight. 
He took several cups of tea, and some cakes at break- 
fast, and then mounted his horse. He dined at two 
o'clock. When the day was wet he read, or arranged 
his papers, or posted his books. 

On one occasion a person who was shooting hia 
ducks, was followed by him, after hearing the report 
of his gun. He at length came upon him, and the 
offender raised his weapon in a threatening manner. 
But Washington wrested itfrom him, and administered 
to him such a reproof as prevented him from trespass- 
ing again. He sometimes went to Annapolis with 
Mrs. Washington, and enjoyed the pleasure of culti- 
vated and fashionable society. Dinners, balls, and 
private theatrical entertainments were then the order 
of the day, and Washington often took part in the 
dance. 

Mount Vernon was a great resort of visitors, many 
of whom, attracted by Washington's reputation, went 
to see him. He received them with the most libera! 
hospitality. He himself never had any children, bi't 



OF GEORGE WASHINGTON. 113 

those of Mrs. Washington he protected with the assi- 
duity and affection of a parent. He was at this 
period, a vestryman of two parishes; and on the 
rebuilding of the church at Pohiok he assumed a 
large portion of the expense. 

An enterprise was set on foot, about this period, to 
drain the Dismal Swamp. Washington, with charac- 
teristic hardihood, explored it, and found it to be thirty 
miles long and ten miles wide ; gloomy woods of 
cedar and cypress, hemlock, fallen trees, and moss, 
were everywhere seen ; while here and there were 
pools, vines, creeping plants, and now and then a bog 
that shook under him in so dangerous a manner, that 
he was compelled often to dismount. The Lake of the 
Dismal Swamp, or Drummond's Pond, he found in 
the centre, about six miles long, and in breadth not 
more than three. It was located at the highest point, 
and formed a suitable reservoir for canals. He noted 
every particular in his book, traversed the whole re- 
gion, and having made his encampment on firm 
ground, finished his exploration, and afterward ori- 
ginated the improvements which were subsequently 
made in this locality. 

We have thus traced Washington through the perils 
of the wilderness, and amid the thrilling scenes in 
which he obtained military experience, and learned 
the art of war. We have seen him face the foe 
with braverj'', and in perilous circumstances exhibit 
the magnanimity and fortitude of the hero. We have 
beheld honors bestowed upon him by his native State, 
and her House of Burgesses ; and we have followed 
him into domestic retirement, and observed his enno- 
10* H 



114 THE LIFE AND TIMES 

bliiig virtues there, amid tranquil and rural seclusion, 
Henceforth we shall trace him amid the perils of war, 
surrounded by the laborious toils of a camp, on the 
sanguinary fields of battle, and in the supreme offices 
of power and influence, to which the gratitude of a 
free people subsequently elevated him. 

The treaty of Fontainbleau, which gave peace to 
the colonies, seemed to aiibrd the hope of its perpe- 
tuity. This hope was destined to disappointment; 
and the Delawares, Shawnees, and other Ohio tribes, 
with whom Washington had mixed, as well as some 
of the chiefs who had been his allies, took up the 
hatchet against the English, laid a deep plot, whose 
ramifications included a simultaneous attack on all 
the posts between Fort Pitt and Detroit. After rava- 
ging the frontiers of Pennsylvania, Maryland, and 
Virginia, and carrying butchery, desolation, and dis- 
may all around, they were only checked by the in- 
fluence of Sir William Johnson from uniting with the 
Six Nations, and rendering the triumph of the toma- 
hawk complete. This war, from the name of ihe 
leading spirit in it, was known as Pontiac's War. 



OF GEORGE WASHINGTON. 113 



CHAPTER XIII. 

CAUSES LEADING TO THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION — RESTRICTIONS CM 
COMMERCE AND MANUFACTURES — THE RIGHT TO TAX AMERICA, 

AND OTHER GRIEVANCES — THE STAMP ACT SPEECH OF PATRICK 

HENRY REPEAL OF THE STAMP ACT — THE OFFENSIVE CLAUSK 

RETAINED — THE EQUANIMITY OF WASHINGTON — LORD BOTETOURT, 

HIS CHARACTER, AND DEATH THE GENERAL COURT OF BOSTON 

WASHINGTON MAKES A TOUR TO THE OHIO HIS AFFLICTION ON 

THE DEATH OF MISS CUSTIS — DIFFICULTIES AS THE GUARDIAN OF 
JOHN PARKE CUSTIS — EARL OF DUNMORE GOVERNOR OF VIRGINIA 

THE TEA THROWN INTO THE SEA AT BOSTON BOSTON PORT 

BILL WASHINGTON AS CHAIRMAN AND DELEGATE — HIS ENTHU- 
SIASTIC PATRIOTISM AFFAIRS IN BOSTON, AND EMBARRASSMENT 

OF GENERAL GAGE. 

Serious difficulties were now about to arise between 
Great Britain and her colonies. The colonial paper 
having depreciated, the British merchants sent a me- 
morial on the subject to the Board of Trade ; who re- 
plied that no paper issued by the colonies should be 
a legal tender in payment of debts. Washington saw 
the inflammatory tendency of this decision. The 
colonies revered the mother country, but her selfish 
commercial policy amounted to monopoly. Foreign 
vessels were excluded from American ports, and im- 
ports were to be made solely from England, in Eng- 
lish ships ; while exports were required to be sent 
only to Great Britain or her dependencies. Heavy 
duties were imposed on articles of trade ; raauufac- 



116 THELIFEANDTIMES 

tures were placed under the most illiberal restraints, 
or prohibited entirely when likely to come into compe- 
tition with those of Great Britain. The circumstances 
which precipitated an open rupture between England 
and her colonies are familiar to every reader, and 
need not be repeated here. 

Washington was one of the watchmen who guarded 
Jhe interests of his country, and calmly observed the 
coming storm from his abode of Mount Vernon. 
American taxation was opposed by Sir Robert Wal- 
pole, the English minister, who said that it would re- 
quire a bolder man than himself to adopt such a step; 
but he suggested it indirectly by the imposition of 
heavy duties. An attempt was made in 1760 in Bos- 
ton, to collect those duties on certain articles; but it 
was not permitted to be done. The commission of 
judges appointed "during the king's pleasure," gave 
offence, and were resisted first in New York. The ex- 
action of oaths from naval officers against smuggling, 
had an injurious eliect, and the colonists in retalia- 
tion refused to purchase British fabrics for clothing; 
by which means, in one year, in Boston alone, the 
demand for British goods fell ten thousand pounds. 

The " right to tax America" was debated in 1764, 
in the House of Commons, and decided in the affirm- 
ative; and notice was given of this resolution to the 
colonies, where the intention was expressed of sup- 
porting a standing army by the moneys raised by that 
taxation. An immense number of claims against the 
colonies, based on twenty-nine acts of Parliament be- 
tween 1660 and 1764, which Burke justly termed "an 
infinite variety of paper claims," held the colonies in 



OF GEORGE WASHINGTON. 117 

a species of pecuniary bondage. The Stamp Act be- 
came the signal for opposition. By it no instruments 
would be valid in law or trade, except such as were 
written on stamped paper, to be purchased only of 
the agents of the British Government. At the same 
time all criminal oftences were to be tried in the royal 
or admiralty courts. 

Washington was present in the House of Burgesses 
on May 29th, 1765, when the Stamp Act came up for 
discussion in that body. His patriotism was at once 
inflamed. Patrick Henry rose and vindicated the ex- 
clusive right of the General Assembly of Virginia to 
tax the inhabitants of that colony ; and declared him- 
self an enemy to the colony which maintained the con- 
trary. It was on this occasion that he fulminated the 
famous and soul-stirring threat: "CsE-sar had his Bru- 
tus ; Charles the First his Cromwell ; and George the 
Third" (treason! treason! exclaimed some persona 
near the chair) "may profit by their example. Sir, 
if tills be treason, then make the most of it." 

The whole country soon became aroused and in- 
flamed. Events were hurrying forward to a decisive 
crisis. The enforcement of the Stamp Act in Boston ; 
the excitement in New York; the combmanon of the 
merchants of that city, Philadelphia, and Boston, 
against the importation of British goods till the repeal 
of the Stamp Act, with "Union" for their watch- 
word; the dismissal of Mr. Grenville from the British 
Cabinet; Dr. Franklin's examination before the Eng 
lish House of Commons ; the repeal of the Stamp 
Act in 1766, with the fatal clause — the chief bone of 
contention — remaining, "that the king, with consent 



118 TUB LIFE AND TIMES 

of Parliament, had power to make laws to bind the 
colonies, and people of America, in all cases whatso- 
ever"; — all had been duly noted by the vigilant and 
patriotic mind of Washington, He saw with appre- 
hension the growing discontent, and the people rising 
against taxation ; this feeling was intensified and in- 
creased when he heard of the embarkation of two regi- 
ments of troops to overawe the people; tidings of the 
refusal of the " Select men" to find quarters for the sol- 
diers on their arrival ; these events and many more, 
came to his knowledge; but he preserved his equa- 
nimity, for the voice of his country had not yet in- 
voked his personal interference. His diary, at this 
period, evinces the tranquillity which he enjoyed at 
Mount Vernon, in his agricultural pursuits, his hunt- 
ing, his duck shooting on the Potomac, his dinners at 
Mount Vernon and Belvoir with his old friend Lord 
Fairfax. We find him writing to his friend George 
MasOn, and discussing all the points at issue between 
the colonies and the mother country ; exhibiting in 
his remarks the grand principles by which his conduct 
was afterward regulated, and j-et showing that he 
could nnrvly to England incidentally the title oi home. 
It was perhaps not yet too late to prevent extremities. 
Lord Botetourt was appointed governor of the pro- 
vince. Of him Walpole had said that he would turn 
the heads of the Virginians one way or the other, 
and either excite their animosities, or captivate them 
by his personal graces. He entertained many erro- 
neous ideas in reference to the colony, and opened 
the session of the House in state as the king was 
accustomed to open Parliament, proceeding to the 



OF GEORGE WASHINGTON. 119 

eapltol in his coach drawn by six white horses; and, 
after delivering his speech, returning to his palace 
with the same preposterous pomp. But the Virginia 
legislators were occupied with matters of more serious 
importance. They came to contend for their rights; 
they adopted spirited resolutions ; the}^ condemned 
the recent act of Parliament imposing taxes ; and 
declared that the power of doing so was vested in the 
House of Burgesses alone. 

Their fellow-patriots of New England manifested 
their sympathy with the heroic stand taken by Vir- 
ginia. As Massachusetts was at that time without a 
General Assembly, the contest was continued by the 
Virginia Legislature; and in an address to the king 
it was asserted, that all crimes and misdemeanors 
should be tried by his majesty's courts within the 
colony; at the same time beseeching him to prevent 
the miseries resulting from sending persons charged 
with crime to England, depriving them of the privilege 
of trial by jury, and of producing witnesses in their 
defence. Dismayed or incensed by these high-toned 
proceedings. Lord Botetourt dissolved the House of 
Burgesses. The spirit of resistance being once aroused, 
was not to be allayed; but his lordship altered his tac- 
tics, became a strenuous advocate for the abolition of 
the taxes, and quieted the Virginians with the assur- 
ance that their demands should be satisfied. Mean, 
while, the General Court having met in Boston, sent a 
committee to the Governor of Massachusetts to say, 
that they could not transact business while the town 
vas invested by sea and land, while cannon were 
pointed at their door, and a military guard kept the 



120 THE LIFE AND TIMES 

State House ; requesting these obstructions to be taken 
away during their sitting. The governor replied that 
he had no authority to do so ; the court, therefore, 
did not sit, and when in session at Cambridge, where 
they met, the governor sent a message to demand 
money and quarters for the support and accommoda- 
tion of the troops. The demand was refused, as hos- 
tile to the rights of the c^'lony. 

A change took place at ti.is period in the British 
Cabinet. The Duke of Grafton was succeeded by 
Lord North. In March an act was passed by which 
all the duties imposed in 1767 were revoked, except 
that on tea. This measure involved the whole ques- 
tion in dispute ; and the people resolved to purchase no 
more tea till the repeal of the duty. The disingenu- 
ous conduct of the ministers had the effect of morti- 
fying Lord Botetourt, who asked for his discharge ; 
but before it arrived, he died of an attack of bilious 
fever, which overcame a frame already debilitated by 
vexation. He had become popular with the Virginians; 
the House of Burgesses decreed the erection of a 
statue to his memory ; and he yet gives name to a 
county in that State. Washington at this period made 
an expedition to the Ohio, to ascertain whether the 
soldiers had obtained the lands promised them. The 
frontier was then in a disordered state ; some traders 
and squatters were murdered, and further trouble was 
apprehended. He visited Fort Pitt, then garrisoned 
l)y two companies. A hamlet consisting of a few log 
houses, called the town, composed what is now the 
populous and flourishing city of Pittsburg. He de- 
Bceiided the Ohio as far as the great Kanawha: break- 



OF GEORGE WASHINGTON. 121 

fasted at Log-town ; and in the progress of his jour- 
ney gratified his passion for hunting by the pursuit 
of deer, and the shooting of wild turlceys. He made 
frequent notes of the appearance of the country, and 
of the quality of the soil. After his return home, 
the hazardous nature of his journey became apparent 
by another outbreak of the Indian tribes, which took 
place on the Ohio, in which Colonel Lewis and a 
number of Virginians were murdered on the banks 
of the great Kanawha. 

The paternal conduct of Washington toward the 
two children of his wife, has already been referred to. 
His sensibilities were now put to a severe tost by the 
illness and death of Miss Custis, in her seventeenth 
year. She had always been of a feeble constitution, 
and early in the summer of 1773 became rapidly 
worse. Washington had been absent for a period; 
and on his return he discovered that a pulmonary 
disease rendered her recovery hopeless. He was 
greatly afflicted; and, kneeling at her bedside, he 
offered the most fervent petitions to the great Dis- 
poser of events for her recovery. He remained at 
home after her death, to ofier what consolation he 
could to Mrs. Washington. Great difficulty had been 
experienced by Washington in the office of guardian 
to John Parke Custis, who was the centre of his mo- 
ther's hopes, on account of the decease of her daughter. 
He was a sensitive and susceptible youth ; possessed 
a large and independent fortune ; and Lis mother 
greatly indulged him. An Episcopal clergyman had 
been his instructor at Annapolis, but he often neg- 
lected his studies, and joined the family at Mount Vcr 
11 



122 THE LIFE AND TIMES 

non. His education was consequently very imperfect. 
When his guardian returned from the Ohio, he found 
that a resohition had been adopted to send him on 
his travels with his clerical tutor. The scheme was 
given up at the prudent intervention of Washington, 
after which he formed a matrimonial engagement. 
Washington opposed the marriage also, as being too 
premature, and wrote to this effect to the lady's father, 
Mr. Benedict Calvert. He then took young Custis 
to New York, and placed him in King's College, an 
institution now known as Columbia Colleo;e. This 
event occurred previous to the death of his sister; and 
within a year afterward, before he had attained the 
age of twenty, he married the object of his affection, 
on February 3d, 1774. Washington at that time made 
no opposition to the match, though he was opposed to 
early marriages as well as to early travel. 

The Earl of Dunmore had been appointed Governor 
of Virginia on the death of Lord Botetourt. Differ- 
ences with the Assembly caused him to prorogue it ; 
but a convention of it became necessary in March, 
1773. A committee of eleven was appointed to ob- 
tain accurate intelligence of those acts and resolutions 
of the British Parliament which affected the interests 
of Virginia, and also to open communications with the 
sister colonies. These committees accomplished much 
for the cause of liberty. Friendlj' relations were 
maintained by Washington with Lord Dunmore; and 
at the time of the lamented death of Miss Custis, he 
had intended to accompany his lordship on a tour to 
the western frontiers, but that bereavement interfered 
with the arraniremont. 



OF GEORGE WASHINGTON. 123 

During several years no tea was imported into the 
colonies ; but orders were issued in 1773 to the East 
India Company, to send several cargoes to America; 
and as large quantities had accumulated, it was re- 
solved to force the purchase of the tea on the colo- 
nies. Several ships were freighted with the commo 
dity, but the people of New York and Philadelphia 
would not permit it to be landed. At Charleston it 
was unloaded, but it was ruined in the damp cellars. 
At Boston the inhabitants, disguised as Indians, 
boarded the ships on the night of December 18th, 
forced open the chests, and threw the tea into the 
sea. To humble and punish the Bostonians, the con- 
centrated wrath of the British Government was vented 
by an act called the Boston Port Bill, by which the 
port of Boston was blockaded, and the custom-house 
transferred to Salem, in June, 1774. The judges of 
the courts were to be appointed by the king, and 
offences were to be tried thenceforth in Great Britain. 

Washington had dined with Lord Dunmore on the 
16th of May; the House of Burgesses had been con- 
vened ; and a ball was resolved upon to compliment 
Lady Dunmore, who had recently joined her husband 
with her numerous family of sons and daughters. 
AH seemed propitious till the news of the Boston Port 
Bill arrived, and both pleasure and business were 
then laid aside. The 1st of June was appointed as 
a day of humiliation and prayer. On the next day, 
when in the midst of an animated debate. Lord Dun- 
more sent for the Burgesses to appear at the council 
chamber; and in a laconic speech immediately de- 
chired the House dissolved. The Burgesses adjourned 



124 THE LIFE AND TIMES 

to the Ealeigh tavern, and resolved that the Boston 
Port Bill was inimical to the liberties of North Ame- 
rica; recommended the disuse of all East Indian 
commodities ; declared taxation an attack on the 
rights of all the colonies ; ordered a communication 
to be opened with the colonies, and recommended a 
general organization, or congress, to meet annually. 
Washington and the Burgesses were still on good 
terms with his lordship, notwithstanding their dijQter- 
ences of opinion and policy. 

On the 1st of June, 1774, the Boston Port Bill was 
carried into effect, and General Gage appointed to 
execute the designs of the British Cabinet, being ap- 
pointed to the military command of Massachusetts. 
He thought that with five regiments he could keep 
Boston in subjection. At the suggestion of the As- 
sembly, a paper called "a solemn league and cove- 
nant" was put in circulation by the committee of cor- 
respondence. The subscribers were bound by it to 
cease all intercourse with Great Britain, and with 
those who refused to enter the compact, till their char- 
tered and invaded rights should be restored. Alarm 
pervaded the country when it became known that 
Boston was blockaded. Washington was appointed 
moderator of a meeting held in Fairfax County, in 
the end of June; and was chosen chairman of a com- 
mittee to draw up resolutions, and report them to the 
general meeting to take place in the court-house on 
the 18th of July. Bryan Fairfax, the brother of 
George William, was shocked at the course afiairs 
were .taking; and in a letter to Washington advised 
the sending of a petition to the king. Washington 



OP GEORGE WASHINGTON. 125 

answered that it would be useless, as this had been 
frequently done already. When the committee assem 
bled, of which Washington was the chairman, reso^ 
lijtions were ottered involving the various matters at 
issue. He was appointed a delegate to the general 
convention of the province, to meet at Williamsburg 
on the 1st of August. On the assembling of this con- 
vention, he is said to have spoken with great earnest- 
ness; which was a proof of his zeal in the cause, as he 
was not ordinarily vehement in speech. It is affirmed 
that his enthusiasm rose very high ; and that he de- 
clared himself ready to raise one thousand men, sup- 
port them at his own expense, and march at their 
head to relieve Boston. 

General Gage was in great perplexity as to the 
proper policy to be pursued toward the inhabitants 
of Boston. They acted with so much coolness and 
determination, that he did not know how to proceed 
in reference to them ; whereas, had their conduct 
been disorderly, his duty would have been plain and 
easy. The commerce of the city was at an end ; the 
wharfs were deserted, and the grass beginning to 
grow in the streets; but everything was conducted 
with the utmost decorum, though town meetings took 
place frequently. These meetings produced, at length, 
80 powerful an effect, as to require an act of govern-- 
nient forbidding them ; but they still were held, 
the liberty tree became a rallying place for every 
popular movement, and 9, flag hoisted on its summit 
was saluted by the citizens as the emblem of the 
rights and purposes of the people. 
11* 



126 THE LIFE AND TIMES 



CHAPTER XIV. 

FIRST CONTINENTAL CONGRESS IN PHILADELPHIA — ITS PROCEEDINGS 

WASHINGTON AT MOUNT VERNON GENERALS PUTNAM AND LEB 

IN BOSTON — THEIR ANTECEDENTS MAJOR GATES AND THE VISIT- 
ORS AT MOUNT VERNON — LEe'S FONDNESS FOR SINGULAR PETS — 

WASHINGTON A DELEGATE TO THE RICHMOND CONVENTION SPEECfl 

OP PATRICK HENRY WASHINGTON'S CONVICTIONS CORROBORATED 

— BATTLES OF LEXINGTON AND CONCORD — THE WAR BEGUN — 
VIEWS OP WASHINGTON. 

Patrick Henry and Edmund Pendleton joined 
Washington at Mount Vernon, and in his company 
proceeded to Philadelphia, to attend the first Conti- 
nental Congress, which assembled in that city on 
Monday, the 5th of September, 1774, in Carpenter's 
Hall. All the colonies, Georgia alone excepted, were 
represented on this memorable occasion, which saw 
fifty-one delegates convened to lay the foundations of 
a mighty empire. A preliminary question having 
arisen respecting the way in which votes should be 
taken, on account of the inequality of the number of 
delegates from different colonies, Patrick Henry repu- 
diated the idea of sectional distinctions. Said he: 
"J" am not a Virginian, hut an American.'' It was 
finally determined that eaclf colony should have one 
vote ; and Mr. Duche, an Episcopal clergyman, being 
invited to officiate as chaplain, engaged in prayer. 
In the lesson for the seventh day, the Psalter contains 



'^F GEORGE WASHINGTON. 127 

the thirty-fifth Psalm, where David prays for the Di- 
vine protection: "Take hold of shield and buckler, 
and stand up for ray help. Draw out, also, the spear, 
and stop the way of them that persecute me. Say 
unto my soul, I am thy salvation." It has been re- 
marked that Washington knelt on this occasion, 
while others stood. It was an impressive season, and 
every one was affected with the prayer offered up in 
such peculiar circumstances. The Congress was held 
with closed doors; but a deep and significant silence 
prevailed, which was at length broken by the eloquent 
speech of Patrick Henry, and by the chaste and clas- 
sical address of Richard Henry Lee. 

Congress, by a resolution, declared their opinion 
respecting the late acts of Parliament, terming them a 
violation of the rights of the people of Massachusetts, 
and expressing their resolution to resist in case of ne- 
cessity. In " a declaration of colonial rights" which 
they adopted, they claimed all the privileges of Eng- 
lishmen, and the power of legislating in provincial 
assemblies. They asserted that the common law of 
England was their birthright, and regarded the main- 
tenance of a standing army as unconstitutional and 
subversive of their liberties. The acts of Parliament 
in the reign of George the Third, known as " the 
sugar act, the stamp act, the two acts fiar quartering 
troops, and the tea act," were specified as infringe- 
ments of their franchises. The chief measures of 
this Congress were remarkable for unanimity and 
acuteness; and the papers prepared by it are acknow- 
ledged to be master-pieces of practical talent and po- 
litical sagacity. What part Washington took in the 



128 THELIFEANDTIMES 

debates of this session is not certainly known, as the 
discussions were involved in secrecy. Doubtless they 
were worthy of himself and beneficial to his country. 
He returned to Mount Vernon ; and his presence there 
was more necessary to cheer Mrs. "Washington, in her 
loneliness, after the decease of her daughter, as 
George William Fairfax had returned to England, to 
take possession of immense wealth to which he had 
fallen heir. Belvoir, his Virginia estate, was left in 
charge of the steward of Mount Vernon ; an accident 
subsequently burnt the mansion to the ground, and 
it was never rebuilt. 

A report had prevailed, during the sittings of the 
Congress, that Boston was cannonaded. The people 
of Massachusetts had become excited by the presence 
of a menacing military force, and disciplined them- 
selves, accumulating arms and ammunition in seve- 
ral places, for the purpose of meeting emergencies. 
Gage ordered all these magazines to be seized, and in 
particular the arsenal northwest of Charlestown. 

News of its capture having spread abroad, thou- 
sands of patriots collected, and were with difficulty 
kept from marching toward Boston. Gage became 
surprised that so many of the other provinces took an 
interest in the proceedings occurring in Massachu- 
setts. Commissions that arrived for colonial officers 
were not accepted ; or, if accepted, were soon re- 
signed ; and Generals Putnam and Charles Lee ap- 
p(3ared on a visit to Boston. Putnam was a veteran 
soldier; had servedatLouisburg, atFortDuquesne, and 
at Crown Point. He was taken by the Indians and 
condemned to be burnt, but was rescued ; and afte^ 



OF GEORGE WASHINGTON. 120 

returning again to rural pursuits, his patriotic heart 
was stirred within hiin. He was appointed chairman 
of the committee of vigilance, and the line of his du- 
ties led him to Boston. General Charles Lee was an 
Englishman by birth, had served under Abercrombie 
uul Prideaux, and was distinguished in a number of 
battles. He had served in Portugal with renown ; 
was aide-de-camp to the monarch of that country' ; 
returned to England in 1766, and in 1769 entered the 
Polish service with the rank of major-general. He 
arrived in America in 1773, and at once took an 
active part in the political agitations of the country. 
He went to Boston, according to his own account, out 
of mere curiosity to see a people placed in such sin- 
gular circumstances. A self-elected assembly of 
ninety members convened at Salem, and voted them- 
selves a provincial Congress, choosing John Hancock 
as their president. Ofhcers were appointed, and a 
militia organized, with an order and system which 
proved formidable to General Gage. 

General Charles Lee and Major Horatio Gates were 
frequent guests at Mount Vernon, after their return 
to Virginia; and Washington was pleased with their 
visits at that time, inasmuch as they were skilled in 
military aflairs, and both were interested in the popu- 
lar cause. Major Gates was an Englishman, liberally 
educated, and Ijad served as a volunteer with General 
£ dvvard Cornwallis, Governor of Halifax. He was 
v^ounded in the defeat of Braddock; and subse- 
quently, as major of brigade, he accompanied General 
Monckton to the West Indies, and distinguished him- 
self at the capture of Martinique. He was appointed 

I 



130 THE LIFE AND TIMES 

major of a regiment of foot, and received a commis- 
Bion in the royal troops. He sold out hi<3 commis- 
sion, emigrated to Virginia in 1772, and then became 
acquainted and intimate with Washington. This sin- 
gular man had a prodigious passion for dogs, which 
he trained to take their seats with him at table; be- 
cause, as he said, he " must have some object to 
embrace." With Putnam, Lee, and Gates, Washing- 
ton became afterward closely connected, during the 
memorable struggle for independence. 

Washington attended the second Virginia conven- 
tion at Eichmond in March, 1755, as a delegate from 
Fairfax County. Patrick Henry, in a speech delivered 
at that time, said : " We must fight, Mr. Speaker ; I 
repeat it, sir, we must fight! An appeal to arms and 
the God of Hosts, is all that is left us." Such was 
also the conviction of Washington, and he suggested 
a plan for carrying on the war; for though not one 
of the first to take up arms, he was the person best 
fitted for marshalling troops, and vigorously carrying 
on the conflict in the face of danger and difficulty. 
" It is my full intention," said he, in a letter to his 
brother, "if needful, to devote my life and fortune to 
the cause." 

Open hostilities at length commenced. Four thou- 
sand men had been added to the British troops in 
Boston. General Gage determined to seize the maga- 
zine at Concord, and detached a force on the 18th of 
J^pril, 1775, to carry that design into eftect. Dr. 
Joseph Warren sent information of the afi:air to John 
Hancock and SaiQuel Adams, and the committee of 
safety ordered the c^unoft \o be collected, and part 



OF GEORGE WASHINGTON. 131 

ot the stores to be removed. Dr. "Warren dispatched 
two messengers by diflerent routes to give warning 
of the approach of the king's troops. They arrived 
at Boston before the orders had been promulgated, 
that no one should leave the town. A lantern was, at 
the same time, according to a signal agreed upon, sus- 
pended from the upper window of a church in the direc- 
tion of Charlestown ; and thus the adjacent country re- 
ceived the alarm. Guns were fired, and the sound of 
the village bells assured Colonel Smith that the coun- 
try was rising. He was but a few miles distant, and 
sent back for reinforcements. Major Pitcairn was 
sent with six companies, and orders were given to 
seize the bridge of Concord. Pitcairn was within a 
mile and a half of Lexington before a horseman had 
alarmed the village. Drums were beaten, guns were 
fired, and when he approached the church, about 
eighty yeomen were equipped and marshalled on the 
green. Pitcairn rode up, waved his sword, and ex- 
claimed: "Disperse, ye villains! Lay down your 
arms, ye rebels, and disperse." The order was un- 
heeded, and a discharge of musketry took place on 
both sides. The fire was irregular, but that of the 
British produced the greater effect. Ten were killed 
and eight wounded, and the patriots were put to 
[light. 

When Colonel Smith marched forward within six 
miles of Concord, the country was aroused, the militia 
were mustered on the parade-ground near the church, 
and the Lincoln yeomanry had joined them. News 
had irrived that the British, in their advance to Con- 
cord, had fired on the pe©ple of Lexington. Great 



J 52 THE LIFE AND TIMES 

Indignation prevailed in the vicinity, and the whole 
militia pouring out, formed two battalions. About 
seven o'clock in the morning the British came in 
sight of Concord. Two hours were taken up in at- 
tempting to destroy the military stores, but with little 
effect, as the greater part of them had been removed. 
Meanwhile, four hundred and iifty militia were col- 
lected at Concord. About ten o'clock the British ap- 
proached them, fired upon them, and killed two per- 
Bons, wounding a third. The Americans returned 
the fire, and pursued the British across the bridge. 
The remaining military stores were destroyed, the dead 
buried, and the wounded put on conveyances. Smith 
then retreated to Boston. His troops were wearied, 
and subjected to the most harrassing retaliation on 
the part of the assembled and hostile yeomanry. 
Along the public roads, when they passed through 
the woods, and from behind walls and other struc- 
tures, they were fired upon, and many of them slain. 
For some miles they had to march through woods, 
defiles, or places skirted by fences, and there many 
were shot down, and others even expired from sheer 
exhaustion. Colonel Smith was wounded before he 
reached Lexington ; and Lord Percy's brigade of a 
thousand men, with two field-pieces, met them. His 
brigade opened their ranks, and forming a hollow 
square, the exhausted men lay down to rest upon the 
ground. He commenced to fire with the two field- 
pieces, and thus kept the Americans at bay. The 
Provincials had fought without a leader, but now 
General Heath led them on, and rallied them in mar- 
tial array. Dr. Warren rode rapidly from Bosion, and 



OF GEORGE WASHINGTON. 133 

became one of the most efficient officers on the field. 
Lord Percy continued the retreat. A galling iire waa 
kept up on his rear by the Americans, who pursued 
him at every step. He himself made a narrow escape 
from death, being struck by a ball, which glanced 
from his waistcoat button. 

Washington says of this scene : "If the retreat had 
not been as precipitate as it was — and God knows it 
could not well have been more so — the ministerial 
troops must have surrendered, or been totally cut oft'." 
The firing was heard in Boston, and when Gage 
ascertained the result, he was overwhelmed with 
surprise that the raw recruits of the Americans could 
resist, much less defeat, the well-trained and veteran 
troops of England. The British in this engagement 
had seventy-thret! Killed, and one hundred and seventy- 
four wounded; the Americans forty-nine killed, thirty- 
nine wounded, and five missing. 

The whole country now became fully aroused and 
inflamed. The condition of Virginia at this period 
was critical. Lord Dun more had seized the muni- 
tions of war in the province. The cry went forth that 
the freedom of the colonies w^as at last to be secured ; 
and Washington was designated as the proper person 
to assume the command of the patriots. He was at 
Mount Vernon, preparing to attend the second Con- 
tinental Congress as a delegate from Virginia, when 
the news of the battle at Lexington reached him, and 
cast a gloomy shadow over the charming and tranquil 
ecene. These were his thoughts on this crisis: "Un- 
happy it is to reflect, that a brother's sword has been 
Bheathed in a brother's breast; and that the onca 
12 



134 THE LIFE AND TIMES 

happy and peaceful plains of America are to ^e either 
drenched with blood, or inhabited by slaves. Sad 
alternative ! But can a virtuous man hesitate in his 
choice ?" 

The Revolution rapidly advanced. Thirty thou- 
Band men were immediately requisite for the defence 
jf the country ; and of these Massachusetts gallantly 
resolved to raise thirteen thousand five hundred. 



OV GEORGE WASHINGTON. 135 



CHAPTER XY. 

KTHAX ALLEN AND THE GREEN MOUNTAIN BOYS — BENEDICT ARNOLD 
— CAPTURE OF TICONDEROGA AND CROWN POINT — CANADA OPENED 
TO THE PATRIOTS — THE SECOND CONGRESS APPOINTS WASHINGTON 

COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF OF THE CONTINENTAL ARMY HIS REMARKS 

ON THE OCCASION HE SELECTS HIS GENERALS AND OFFICERS ■ — 

BRITISH REINFORCEMENTS UNDER HOWE BURGOYNE AND CLIN- 
TON — SEIZURE OF THE HEIGHTS OF CJHARLESTOWN — BREED's HILL 
AND BUNKER HILL — FORTIFICATIONS — SURPRISE OF GENERAL 
GAGE — THE BATTLE OF BUNKER HILL — ITS RESULTS. 

The appeals made by the circular letters which 
were issued by the committee of safety, met with 
prompt attention ; and bodies of militia flocked to the 
standard of the patriots at Boston, from New Hamp- 
shire, Rhode Island, and Connecticut. With the 
tro(^p8 of the latter came Israel Putnam, who had 
lately been appointed brigadier-general. The com- 
mand of the camp at Boston was given to General 
Artemas Ward, who had served as lieutenant-general 
under Abercrombie. 

Some bold spirits in Connecticut conceived the de- 
sign of surprising Ticonderoga and Crown Point — an 
idea secretly favored by the Legislature of Connecti- 
cut. The greatest accession of troops came from 
" The New Hampshire Grants," on which Ethan 
Allen and his lieutenants, Seth Warner and Remera- 
1)6 r Baker, had once set the authority of New York at 



186 THE LIFE AND TIMFS 

defiance, and formed an association called the "Green 
Mountain Boys." They now offered their services in 
the popular cause, and with two hundred and seventy 
men, under Ethan Allen, an advance was made to 
Castleton, near Lake Chaniplain. Detachments were 
sent to bring all the boats to Shoreham, opposite 
Ticonderoga. At Castleton Benedict Arnold joined 
the patriots. lie also entertained designs on Ticon- 
deroga, and had been appointed to raise a force of 
four hundred men in Western Massachusetts. He has- 
tened to overtake the march, showed his commission, 
and aspired to the command; but the Green Mountain 
Boys would follow no leader except Ethan Allen. 
Allen and Arnold reached the fort with eighty men; 
mounted a hill under the direction of a boy in the 
vicinity; baffled the first sentry, and granted the life 
of another on condition of being led to the quarters 
of Captain Delaplace, the commandant, who was yet 
in bed. The appearance of the party so unexpectedly, 
greatly astonished him. "By whose authority do you 
act?" he exclaimed. "In the name of the Great 
Jehovah and the Continental Congress," replied Allen. 
The garrison of forty men were sent, with their cap- 
tain, prisoners of war to Hartford. The fortress was 
full of military and naval stores. 

Colonel Seth Warner was now sent with a detach- 
ment against Crown Point, which surrendered on the 
12th of May, 1775. The garrison consisted of twelve 
men and a sergeant. The captors found in it upwards of 
an hundred cannon. Arnold now claimed to command 
Ticonderoga, but was compelled to yield to the greater 
popularity of Allen. On the arrival of a schooner 



OF GEORGE WASHINGTON. 187 

and some boats, a project was formed to surprise St. 
John's on the Sorel River, the frontier port of Canada. 
Cannon were put on board, and Arnold, wlio was a 
seaman, took the command; while Allen and the 
Green Mountain Boj's embarked in the boats. Ar- 
nold outsailed the latter, captured the garrison of St. 
John's, consisting of twelve men and a sergeant, a 
king's sloop carrying seventy guns, two brass pounders 
and seven men ; and hearing that troops were on the 
way from Montreal and Chamblee, sailed off with his 
prisoners and prizes. He met Allen, who had been 
foiled in his attempt at garrisoning St. John's with 
Green Mountain Boys, as a larger force had arrived. 
He therefore returned to Ticonderoga. This gave 
the patriots the command of the Lakes George and 
Champlain, and opened the way to Canada. 

The second Congress assembled at Philadelphia on 
the 10th of May, 1775, and Washington was ap- 
pointed chairman of all the committees having juris- 
diction over military matters. There was much dis- 
cussion during the session in reference to the army 
before Boston, and the subject of the appointment of 
a commander-in-chief engrossed much attention. 

On the 15th of June, 1775, the pay of the com- 
mander-in-chief was fixed at five hundred dollars a 
month. The forces were to be called the Continental 
Army, and that under General Gage the Ministerial 
Army. Mr. Johnson, of Maryland, rose and nomi- 
nated Washington for the post of commander-in- 
chief. The election was made by ballot, and was unani- 
mous. Washington then rose in his place, and gave 
expression to his grateful sense of the honor confe» '•^id 
12* 



138 THE LIFE AND TIMES 

upon hira, and his devotion in the service of his 
country ; but he added that, lest some unlucky event 
should happen unfavorable to his reputation, he de- 
sired every gentleman to remember that he declared, 
with the utmost sincerity, that he did not think him- 
self equal to the command with which he was honored. 
As to salary, he begged leave to assure the Congress 
tliat, as no pecuniary consideration could have tempted 
him to accept this arduous trust at the expense of his 
domestic happiness, he did not wish to make any 
profit by it. He declared that he would keep an exact 
account of his expenses, which, he did not doubt, they 
would discharge ; and that was all he desired. Four 
major-generals were appointed. General Ward was 
placed second in command, next to him was General 
Le'e ; the other two were Philip Schuyler, of New 
York, and Israel Putnam, of Connecticut. Seth 
Pomeroy, Richard Montgomery, David Wooster, 
William Heath, Joseph Spencer, John Thomas, John 
Sullivan, and Nathaniel Greene, were appointed 
brigadier-generals. Major Horatio Gates, at the re- 
quest of Washington, was appointed adjutant-general, 
with the rank of brigadier. 

Washington received his commission from Congress 
on the 20th of June, and, at the request of several 
officers, made a review of some companies of militia, 
horse and foot. At this period he was forty-three 
years of age; and as he sat on his horse, his manly 
grace and commanding presence delighted every 
beholder, and he was received with general acclama- 
tions. 

Du-'ing the deliberations of Congress, the town of 



OF GEORGE WASHINGTON. 139 

Boston was blockaded, water was cut off from the 
country around it, no fresh provisions could be ob- 
tained, and much privation was suffered by the jity 
in consequence. Reinforcements, under Generals 
Howe, Burgoyrie, and Clinton, all of whom were 
commanders of reputation, arrived on the 25th of 
May from England. General Gage determined to 
take the field ; the province was put under martial 
law, and pardon was offered to all who would lay 
down their arms, excepting only John Hancock and 
Samuel Adams. The proclamation had no other 
effect than that of putting the patriots on the alert. 
Their number daily increased, and at length amounted 
to fifteen thousand men, who were variously distri- 
buted. They presented a miscellaneous gathering of 
four distinct bodies, of whom ten thousand belonged 
to Massachusetts, under the command of Artemas 
Ward. His head-quarters were at Cambridge. The 
troops were mostly undisciplined recruits, and many 
of them were without military accoutrements. They 
were distributed over a space of ten or twelve miles 
Boston, at that period, had a population of seventeen 
thousand ; and the garrison of British troops, well 
disciplined, amounted to ten thousand. They were 
hemmed in by the besiegers, and an engagement was 
desired on both sides, in which each felt confident of 
success. A project was formed to seize the heights 
of the peninsula, opposite to the north side of Boston, 
called Charlestown. Secret intelligence had informed 
the Americans of the intention of General Gage to 
seize Dorchester Heights on the 18th of June; and 
this determined them to hurry forward the project of 



140 THE LIFE AND TIMES 

taking Charlestown Heights. These had latel}^ Leerj 
reconnoitred by Richard Fridley, an experienced 
engineer. For this purpose troops were detached 
from the Massachusetts regiments, including two hun- 
dred men under Captain Knowlton, from Putnam's 
Connecticut troops, and forty-nine artillery-men, with 
two field-pieces, under Captain Samuel Gridley. 

The time agreed on for the attack was the 16th of 
June ; and at sunset twelve hundred men met on the 
common before General Ward's quarters, with packs, 
blankets, and twenty-four hours' provisions. After 
prayers they set out in silence, ignorant of their des- 
tination. Colonel Prescott was chosen to command 
the enterprise, and he carried written orders to fortify 
and defend Bunker Hill till it was relieved; Colonel 
Richard Gridley was to plan the fortifications, and 
reinforcements were to be sent to aid the fatigue 
party in the morning. The detachment with Colonel 
Prescott at its head, left Cambridge at nine o'clock, 
and was joined at Charlestown Neck by Major Brooks 
and General Putnam. It was here that the wagons, 
which were full of tools for intrenchment, suggested 
to the men the first idea of the purpose intended. 
They now came near the ground, over which the 
British kept constant watch, having erected a battery 
almost opposite to Charlestown. Five vessels wer*? 
stationed so as to command Charlestown Neck. Col 
Prescott led his men across this isthmus without 
being discovered, and began the ascent of Bunker 
Hill, whose altitude is a hundred and twelve feet; the 
summit being reached by a declivity which extends 
from the Neck to the top of the hill, about three hun- 



OF GEORGE WASHINGTON. 141 

dred yards ; and then, declining south, connects with 
Breed's Hill, whose height is about seventy feet. The 
hill-tops are seven hundred yards from each other. The 
height being attained, the next point to be decided was, 
which hill should first be fortified? The written orders 
designated Bunker Hill, but Breed's Hill was nearest 
to Boston, and commanded both it and the shipping. 
After a good deal of debate on the question, as the 
night waned, it was determined to fortify Breed's 
Hill, and the enterprise was undertaken with great 
spirit ; but, in consequence of having wasted much 
time in discussion, it was midnight before they com- 
menced. Prescott assumed the responsibility of the 
occasion, and sent twice to the water's edge to observe 
the enemy. All was still quiet there, so that the 
sentry's cry of "All's well" could be distinctly heard 
in the streets of Boston, as well as the call of the 
watch on board the ships of war in the port. 

The labor of erecting intrenchments proceeded w^ith 
such energy and spirit, that by the dawn of day a 
strong redoubt, with a breastwork partly cannon- 
proof, connected the summit of Breed's Hill with the 
Blough. The purpose of Prescott was accomplished ; 
but in the morning the Lively, the nearest ship, 
brought her guns to bear, and fired upon the hill. 
Other ships in the port did the same. One man was 
killed ; and w^hen the question was propounded to Pres- 
cott what was to be done, his laconic answer was : " Bury 
him." His fall had an effect on some of his comrades, 
who left the hill, and did not return. The cannon- 
ading disturbed the morning slumbers of the Bos- 
touians, and of General Gage, who could scarcely 



142 THE LIFE AND TIMES 

believe the testimony of his senses. Seeing the tall 
figure of Prescott, he was anxious to know his name, 
and whether he would fight. Being answered in the 
affirmative, he replied : " Then the works must be 
carried." He summoned a council of war, in which 
a majority, among whom were Clinton and Grant, 
advised that troops should be landed on Charlestown 
l^eck, and attack and dislodge the Americans, under 
the cover of the batteries. Gage objected to this 
plan, because it would place his army under two fires. 
He considered it better to push directly up the hill ; 
and thought that in a hand-to-hand encounter, raw 
militia would be wholly inefficient in comparison with 
his disciplined troops. 

The bustle of military preparations at length in- 
formed the wearied Americans that the town of Bos- 
ton was alarmed, and that disciplined soldiers were 
mustering to attack the rudely-fortified height. After 
some delay, Colonels Stark and Read marched to tlie 
relief of Prescott. Each soldier received two flints, 
fifteen balls, and a gill of powder; w^hich, as it had 
not been put up in cartridges, had to be carried in 
powder-horns, or loosely in the pocket. The balls, 
also, had to be suited to the calibre of the difierent 
guns, as in many instances they varied in size. The 
troops on Breed's Hill gallantly bore the fire from the 
ships and the battery on Copp's Hill, returning an 
occasional shot, the men fortifying themselves more 
strongly ; and at 11 o'clock, having placed their in- 
trenching tools in the rear, with anxious impatience 
they awaited reinforcements and supplies. Some mis 
understanding arose between Generals Putnam and 



OF GEORQE WASHINQTON. 143 

Prescott about the intrenching tools. They Avere 
afterward taken to Bunker Hill, and an important 
breastwork was erected under the direction of Put- 
nam. Twenty-eight barges, with a large detachment 
of grenadiers, rangers, and light infantry, under the 
command of Major-General Howe, making a splendid 
appearance, in well-appointed military equipments, 
were seen at noon crossing in parallel lines from Bos- 
ton, while a heavy fire proceeded from the ships in the 
port. General Howe paused on Breed's Hill. The 
troops were more strongly intrenched than he had 
expected, and he sent to Gage for additional forces 
and ammunition. In the meantime, "grog" was 
served out to the British troops ; and the American 
soldiers, by this time both hungry and thirsty, saw 
the foe eating and drinking. Their own refreshment 
consisted in fortifying their position better; and Put- 
nam, meantime, sent Captain Knowlton to cover a 
pass which, if unguarded, might enable the enemy to 
turn their flank, and seize on Bunker Hill. A double 
fence was constructed by pulling up the posts and 
rails of other fences, and filling the intervening space 
with newly-mown hay. While this work was being ac- 
complished, Putnam sent his son. Captain Putnam, to 
liasten the march of the troops from Cambridge; and 
meanwhile the veteran Stark arrived with five hundred 
men. Warren, who had opposed the occupation of 
the heights, arrived at two o'clock, to aid in their 
perilous defence. He declined the command at the 
))ost oftered him by Putnam, and ultimately took his 
htand at the redoubt. Nearly seven hundred feet 
intervened between the redoubt and the fences; but 



144 THE LIFE AND TIMES 

the latter proved a great protection to the redoubt 
notwithstanding. 

As Warren entered the redoubt, the troops loudly 
cheered him. He again declined the command ten- 
dered bim by Prescott. The British, anticipating an 
easy victory, now prepared for a general attack. 
While General Howe was to advance with the right 
wing, and turn the American flank, cutting off tbeir 
retreat. General Pigot was ordered to ascend and 
force the redoubt. The Americans reserved their fire 
till the enemy were within forty paces, and then 
poured upon them so deadly a volley, that it pro- 
duced immense carnage. Anotlier subsequent ad- 
vance was met with a more destructive fire tlian be- 
fore ; and Pigot was compelled to retreat. Stark, 
Read, and Kuowlton, forming the left wing, in the 
meantime were attacked in their positions by General 
Howe's troops. The Americans suffered little loss, 
and had orders not to fire till tbe enemy were within 
a very short distance. Some of them neglected this 
order; whereupon Putnam swore that he would cut 
down the first man who fired contrary to orders. At 
the proper time rifles, muskets, and fowling-pieces 
were discharged with deadly eft'ect; the slaughter be- 
came terrible, and the British were put to confusion. 
The advancing enemy halted ; Prescott praised his 
men, and exhorted them to restrain their next fire till 
the word of command was given. 

The British ascended again to attack the redoubt. 
Charlestown was now in flames ; and the thunder ol 
artillery from the ships, the bursting of bombs, the 
report of musketry, and the shouts of those engaged 



OF GEORGE WASHINGTON. 145 

m tlie deadly strife, were terrible. The Americana 
again reserved their fire till the enemy was near, and 
then poured in another volley with the most dreadful 
result. The continued and irregular stream of fire 
caused the enemy to stagger, as they advanced after 
the first shock. Whole ranks were then mowed down ; 
many officers were slain or wounded ; and the enemy 
again retreated. These achievements were performed 
in the presence of thousands of every age and sex, 
who beheld them from the roofs and towers of Boston. 
General Howe's officers remonstrated against a third 
attack in front; and it was then resolved to take the 
redoubt in flank, where a weak point was presented 
between the breastwork and the fortified fence. 

The Americans were now found to be in want of 
ammunition, and the foe prepared to take advantage 
of this misfortune, and carry the works at the point 
of the bayonet. General Howe led the main body 
against the fortified fence, and a severe fire drove the 
Americans from the breastwork ; while balls entered 
the sallyports, and great damage was effected. The 
works were again assaulted; the Americans fired with 
fatal precision, which carried death to several officers, 
and General Howe himself was wounded. But his 
soldiers now rushed forward with fixed bayonets, and 
Vigot and Clinton advanced, so that the redoubt was 
attacked on three sides simultaneously. Several 
mounted to the back of the redoubt. The first ex- 
claimed: "The day is ours." He was instantly shot 
dov/n. Their ammunition being exhausted, the Ame- 
ricans fought hand to hand with desperate courage, 
using their bayonets, the butt-ends of muskets, and 
13 K 



146 THE LIFE AND TIMES 

even stones. Prescott then gave the order to retreat ; 
two divisions cut their way through the enemy, and 
the patriotic Warren received a mortal wound. 

While these events were being enacted, Stark, Head, 
and Knowlton, the brave defenders of the fortified 
fence, resisted till after Colonel Prescott had left the 
hill. Their purpose being effected, they abandoned 
the weak outpost, and retired slowly, with admirable 
order. Among the valuable officers who fell in this 
battle was Major Pitcairn. The heroic Warren, whom 
his friends had in vain dissuaded from the perils of 
this conflict, died, repeating the beautiful and patriotic 
words of the Roman poet : Dulee et decorum est, pro 
patria mori. His death was an incalculable loss to 
his country. 

The British, in this memorable battle, had one 
thousand men slain and wounded, out of three thou- 
sand; while the American loss was four hundred and 
fifty, out of fifteen hundred. This conflict taught the 
patriots that they could cope successfully with the 
best troops of England, even when commanded by 
her most distinguished generals. 



OP aEORGE WASHINGTON. 147 



CHAPTER XVI. 

MTASHINGTON's journey to the army — ITS CONDITION AND DEFI- 
CIENCY IN POWDER, CLOTHING, AND INTRENCHING TOOLS — THH 
FORCES OP THE ENEMY, THEIR POSITION, SUPERIOR DISCIPLINE, 

AND EQUIPMENTS GENERAL GREENE THE COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF 

ENFORCES STRICT DISCIPLINE — HIS ESTABLISHNENT AT HEAD- 
QUARTERS — GREAT ANXIETY IN CONSEQUENCE OF THE WANT OP 
POWDER — WRITES FOR A SUPPLY TO TICONDEROGA AND THE JER- 
SEYS — BOLD PROJECT — CORRESPONDENCE WITH GENERAL GAGE — 
ITS EFFECTS — DESCRIPTION OP EVENTS TRANSPIRING AT A DIS- 
TANCE FROM HEAD-QUARTERS — RIVALRY OF ARNOLD AND ALLEN 
— PROJECTS FOR THE POSSESSION OF CANADA. 

When General "Washington had advanced twenty 
miles from Philadelphia, on his way to the army 
posted at Boston, accompanied by Generals Schuyler 
and Lee, he met a courier, riding at full speed, carry- 
ing despatches to Congress, with tidings of the bat- 
tle of Bunker Hill. In answer to his eager inquiry 
respecting the conduct of the militia, he was assured 
of their bravery, their reception of their enemy's fire, 
and their own effective fighting. He was satisfied, 
and exclaimed: "The liberties of the country are 
safe." On arriving at the camp at Boston, he found 
the army numbered fourteen thousand five hundred 
men. Several circumstances rendered them less effi- 
cient than might have been expected from their num- 
bers. The time' had not been well employed in disci- 



148 THE LIFE AND TIMES 

pline and preparation, as it was hoped that an open 
rupture between England and her colonies might 
have been avoided. On examining the magazines, 
soon after his arrival, Washington ascertained that 
only nine cartridges could be furnished to each sol- 
dier. The supply of powder was not to be obtained 
from Congress, but from committees and other sources, 
who, in difierent localities, had collected small quan- 
tities for their defence. There was also a deficiency in 
arms, and many were of a quality so inferior, as to 
render them nearly useless. The troops were almost 
destitute of clothing, and had no tents under which 
to be sheltered. The siege of Boston was to be con- 
ducted without engineers or intrenching tools, as 
there was so great a deficiency in these important 
requisites, that such as existed were scarcely deserv- 
ing of notice. There was also a good deal of dissatis- 
faction with many, respecting the officers selected by 
Congress; the officers, in some of the colonies, having 
been chosen by the soldiers, and were therefore very 
inimical to the exercise of proper discipline. Yet the 
general, on viewing such a large number of able- 
bodied men, who were zealous in the cause of their 
country, and were no doubt possessed of courage, 
was pleased to find that he had "good materials for 
an army," and set himself about organizing and 
disciplining it, so as to bring it up to the necessary 
standard. 

On making particular inquiries respecting the situa- 
tion and resources of the enemy intrenched in Bos- 
ton, "Washington concluded that the works might be 
taken, though the effort was attended with difficulties. 



OF GEORGE WASHINGTON. 149 

In a council of officers, it was the general opinion 
that an assault should not be undertaken. Beside 
Gen. Gage, Washington was brought into competition, 
in this contest, with three other distinguished British 
commanders. The next in rank to Gage was General 
William Howe, who possessed a noble person, was six 
feet in height, and not unlike Washington in appear- 
ance. He was a brother of Lord Howe, who fell on the 
banks of Lake George, whose death the colonies had 
lamented. He had commanded the light-infantry 
under the gallant Wolfe, when he was slain on the 
Plains of Abraham. General Clinton was son of George 
Clinton, a former Governor of New York; and had 
seen service on the continent in the seven years' war. 
General Burgoyue was a natural son of Lord Bing- 
ley; he early entered the army ; eloped with a daughter 
of Lord Derby; was lieutenant-colonel of dragoons in 
1758; and in 1761 served against Spain. He was also 
a dramatist, and a man of wit ; had been elected to a 
seat in Parliament ; and in 1772 received the rank of 
major-general. 

When Washington reconnoitred the camp of the 
British, he found everything in admirable order ; the 
works being constructed on the principles of military 
science, and the troops well disciplined. The main 
force under General Howe, was intrenching itself on 
Bunker Hill, near the late battle-field. Their scar- 
let uniforms presented a bright and striking appear- 
ance as they gleamed in the sunlight. Washington ob- 
served that the British forces lay very compactly, and 
had command of the water; so that their main strength 
might be made to bear on a single point, and thus 
13* 



150 THE LIFE AND TIMES 

divide the Americans. One of the American encamp- 
ments claimed his admiration. Tents and marquees 
were pitched ; the soldiers were well disciplined, and 
their equipments were complete. Their leader was one 
who well deserved notice, on account of his importance 
in the war! The father of Brigadier-General Nathaniel 
Greene was an anchor-smith and Quaker preacher. 
His heroic son was born in May, 1742. He had re- 
ceived only a limited education, but was endowed 
with great natural talents. His spirit had been roused 
by the late warlike deraonstrations. He delighted to 
study the military art ; perused Caesar's Commenta- 
ries and Plutarch's Lives with interest ; and having 
gone to Boston, observed the order and discipline of 
the British troops. In June, 1775, he brought three 
regiments before Boston, which proved to be the best 
appointed in the army. Greene made an address to 
the general, welcoming him to the camp. He seems 
to have gained Washington's confidence at once. He 
continued always one of his most faithful aids, and 
never lost his esteem. 

Washington, observing the perilous situation of the 
American army, on account of the length and weak- 
ness of their lines, summoned a council of war. The 
difficulty was considered with due attention ; and it 
was thought that an abandonment of the line of works, 
after so much time and labor had been expended in 
their construction, would be impolitic, disheartening 
to the soldiers, and leaving a large tract of country 
open to the ravages of the enemy. It was therefore 
concluded best to strengthen the works, occupy 
them, and augment the army to twenty thousand 



OF GEORGE WASHINGTON. 151 

men. In carrying out this purpose, General Put- 
nam rendered great assistance ; and, as Washington 
remarked, he " seemed to have the faculty of infus- 
ing his own spirit into all the workmen he era- 
ployed." 

The army was then divided into three parts. The 
right wing commanded the heights of Roxborongh. 
It was under the command of Major-General Ward. 
The left wing had its position on Prospect Hill, and 
was placed under Major-General Lee. The centre, 
stationed at Cambridge, was commanded by General 
Putnam and Brigadier-General Heath. The most 
rigid discipline was enforced in the army. Every 
one was made to know his place, and to keep it; or 
if neglecting to do it, received thirty lashes. The 
greatest distinction was observed between officers and 
soldiers, and new orders were read to each regiment 
every morning after prayers. This usage was thought 
to be partly owing to General Lee, who daily inspected 
the lines with the commander, and, it is said, once 
threatened to cane an officer for unsoldierly conduct. 
The Legislature of Massachusetts, and the Governor 
of Connecticut, had earnestly solicited a detachment 
of troops for the defence of the sea-coast against 
armed vessels ; but Washington, having consulted 
several of his officers and members of the Continental 
Congress previous to making his reply, respectfully 
declined to accede to the 'request, as tending to 
weaken the main army. This refusal produced dis- 
satisfaction with some parties, until Congress sanc- 
tioned it; and the wisdom of the determination soou 
became apparent. 



152 THE LIVE AND TIMES 

The head-quarters at Cambridge assigned to the 
general manifested liberality on the part of the As- 
sembly of Massachusetts, who designated the house 
of the president as his residence. A committee waa 
commissioned to procure "a steward, a housekeeper, 
and two or three women cooks." The wishes of the 
commander-in-chief were to be complied with re- 
specting the supplies of his table ; which, from his 
high station, required to be furnished in hospitable 
style; and every day some of the officers dined with 
him. He was social, but not convivial ; and though 
courteous to his guests, grave matters pressed upon 
his mind too heavily to allow the indulgences of the 
table. He subsisted on ver}' simple fare; and at 
times, only on baked apples, or berries with cream. 
He early left the table, and on retiring an aide-de- 
camp took his place. The great purpose of Washing- 
ton now was, to draw the enemy out of Boston, and 
try the issue of a general battle. The conmiander 
had some time since caused all the live stock within 
reach to be driven back into the country, and fresh 
provisions could not be obtained. It was just then 
that the scarcity of powder was discovered; and 
Washington sent letters to Rhode Island, the Jerseys, 
and Ticonderoga, requesting immediate supplies, and 
stating that any quantity, however small, would be 
welcome. Writing to (governor Cooke, of Rhode 
Island, he suggested that an armed vessel should seize 
on a powder magazine in the island of Bermuda. 
Days passed by, but no supplies arrived. It did not 
Hcem possible to conceal the fatal deficiency much 
longer from the enemy; because in one camp they could 



OF GEORGE WASHINGTON. 163 

perceive what was transpiring in the other. A secret 
intercourse sometimes took place between the men. 
It is thought that the enemy was informed of the defi- 
ciency of powder ; but did not believe the report, on 
account of the bold front presented by the Americana. 
The camp remained during two whole weeks in thia 
critical state, when the imminence of the danger waa 
diminished by the reception of a small supply of 
powder from the Jerseys ; which in some degree re- 
lieved the apprehensions of an attack, which were 
experienced by Washington. 

A correspondence now took place between Wash- 
ington and General Gage, in which the former put his 
army on a proper footing with respect to the king'a 
troops ; claiming perfect equality, and manifesting 
that the courtesies of civilized warfare were expected 
from them. He remarked on the ill treatment re- 
ceived by several American officers, who had been con- 
fined in the Boston jail ; and that those who were of 
the most respectable rank, had obtained the least 
consideration. The claims of humanity were urged, 
and he concluded by remarking that his own conduct 
toward British prisoners would be regulated by the 
treatment received by captive Americans. The reply 
of General Gage contained much that might rouse 
the indignant feelings of Washington. The latter 
sent him a very spirited and dignified reply ; and 
concluded with the remark, that if "your officers our 
prisoners receive a treatment from me diflerent from 
that which I wished to show them, they and you will 
remember the occasion of it." This threat was fol- 
lowed by the committal to the common jail of ^North 



154 THE LIFE AND TIMES 

ampton of certain British officers then at large on 
parole ; they being informed of the reason of it, to 
the effect that, as no difference in rank had been 
made in the treatment of American prisoners by 
General Gage, so none should be made in the treat- 
ment of the British. Circumstances subsequently 
occasioned a recall of this order, and the officers were 
allowed to remain at large on parole as before. 

As Boston was the great centre against which the 
American commander-in-chief was directing his 
efforts, he had removed his camp near to it ; but, to 
carry on the object the colonies had in view in resist- 
ing the encroachments of Great Britain, it was neces- 
Bary that the generals of the continental army should 
lead their troops to battle both in the north and south. 
These being under the supervision and direction of 
Washington, we will follow them in their different 
encounters, which were so many links in the general 
chain of operations. 

Letters received from General Schuyler in July, 
1775, rendered Washington apprehensive of dangers 
from the interior. The Indians, it was said, were 
being stirred up by the Johnson family, who had 
great influence ; and danger in the rear began to 
threaten the patriots who, on the seaboard, were fight- 
ing for liberty. The rivalry of Arnold and Ethan 
Allen respecting the command at Ticonderoga, caused 
the matter to be referred to the Albany Committee, 
who asked the opinion of that at New York. It was 
referred in turn by these to the Continental Congress, 
who accepted of the captured fortress, and committed 
it to the custody of New York, as it was in that pro- 



OF (lEORGE WASHINGTON. 155 

vince, with such aid from !N"ew England as might be 
necessary. The idea of the dismantling of Ticonde- 
roga and Crown Point by the order of the Conti 
nental Congress, had been exclaimed against by both 
Arnold and Allen ; but both were ambitious of lead- 
ing an expedition into Canada, and these fortresses 
would open the way to it. Allen wrote to the New 
York Assembly to say that an army of two or three 
thousand men might subdue Canada, unless it were 
reinforced from England; and Arnold wrote on the 
same subject to the Continental Congress, stating that, 
from knowledge then in his possession, two thousand 
men would suffice to take the province ; and propos- 
ing himself as the leader of the ei.terprise. 



156 THE LIFE AND TIMES 



CHAPTER XVII. 

BENEDICT ARNOLD HIS AMBITION THROWS UP HIS COMMISSION — 

GENERAL SCHUYLER ATTEMPTS THE CONQUEST OF CANADA — HIS COll- 

RESPONDENCE WITH WASHINGTON — STATE OF CANADA SCHUYLEB 

MAKES A TREATY WITH THE SIX NATIONS AT ALBANY GENERA:, 

MONTGOMERY IN COMMAND — INDIANS IN CAMP AT CAMBRIDGE — 
MONTGOMERY AND SCHUYLER ON THE WAY TO ST. JOHNS — AFFAIRS 
IN BOSTON — OPERATIONS IN BOTH CAMPS — EXPEDITION INTRUSTED 
TO ARNOLD — ATTACK ON ST. JOHn's ABANDONED — CAPTURE OF ETHAN 

ALLEN — MONTGOMERY IN COMMAND GALLANT CONDUCT OF ARNOLD 

AND HIS MEN — TREASON IN THE CAMP — FALMOUTH BURNT — CAP- 
TURE OF CHAMBLEE — ST. JOHn's CAPITULATES — ARNOLD AND HIS 
TROOPS REACH QUEBEC — THEIR INTENSE SUFFERINGS. 

One of the suggestions made by Arnold was, that 
no Green Mountain Boys should be received as vol- 
unteers; and these now returned home, their time of 
service being expired. Ethan Allen and Setb Warner 
proceeded to Congress to obtain the pay due to their 
men. They resolved to raise another company of 
Green Mountain Boys, consisting of live hundred 
men. In the meantime Arnold had had a difficulty 
with Colonel Hinman, in reference to the command 
of the fortresses ; and was now at Crown Point with 
one hundred and fifty men. While he expected to 
achieve a triumph over his rival, his assumption of 
the command had been complained of to the Assem- 
bly' of Massachusetts, who now sent a committee of 



OF GEORGE WASHINGTON. 157 

three to inquire into everything relating to his spirit 
and conduct; and to order him, if expedient, to ac- 
count for the moneys, arms, stores, and ammunition 
which he had received. The troops were placed, 
meanwhile, under the chief officer from Connecticut. 
Arnold was greatly enraged, and threw up his com- 
mission. The disbanded men clamored for their pay, 
and refused to serve under any other officer. Part 
of the men joined Arnold on the lake, and he medi- 
tated an attack on St. John's. The difficulty was 
eventually settled by promises of pay made to tlie 
men, and Arnold went to Cambridge to settle his 
accounts. The Congress had, about this period, di- 
rected General Schuyler to proceed on the 27th of 
June to Ticonderoga ; and, if possible, to take pos- 
session of St. John's and Montreal, and pursue such a 
course respecting Canada as might seem to him most 
expedient. At this time political dissensions, and 
the late success on Lake Champlain, had rendered 
the Canadians disposed to assist the Americans. The 
regular troops of Carleton were much reduced. No\n 
was the time, therefore, for the enterprise against 
Canada, before Carleton was reinforced from Eng- 
land, or had launched the vessels M'hich he was build- 
ing, on the lake. In a letter to General Trumbull, 
bearing date July 12th, 1775, Ethan Allen remarked, 
that but for the incorporation of the Green Mountain 
Boys into a battalion, by the Continental Congress, 
he would march with them into Canada, and would 
invest Montreal without any aid from the colonies. 
General Schuyler then resolved to stir himself, and 
he reached Ticonderoga on the 18th of July. Colonel 
14 



158 THE LIFE AND TIMES 

Hirnnan was in command of Ticonderoga at the time, 
or at least was the officer of highest rank. 

The garrison of the fort consisted of twelve hun- 
dred men. General Schnj'ler, on assuming the com- 
mand, sent an agent to Major John Brown in Canada, 
to gain information in reference to the British force 
and fortifications, and to feel the public pulse as to 
the probable result of an attack on St. John's. Mean- 
time he prepared boats, should the enterprise be un- 
dertaken. A letter of General Schuyler to Wash- 
ington about this time, furnishes a curious account of 
his approach to the fort. He found the men who were 
placed as sentinels soundly asleep. He declared: 
" With a penknife only I could have cut off both 
guards, and then have set fire to the block-house, 
destroyed the stores, and starved the people here." 
This occurred at a post where all the stores must be 
landed from Lake George, and which necessarily 
required the utmost vigilance. The insubordination 
of the soldiers, especially of the Connecticut troops, 
and the difficulties, dangers, and delays which were 
the consequence, greatly vexed General Schuyler. 
He complained of these misfortunes to Washington, 
who consoled and encouraged him by dwelling upon 
his own greater difficulties at Cambridge, and the 
persevering spirit with which he encountered them. 
He informed Schuyler that the difficulties he had in- 
curred were only a miniature of what became a full- 
length portrait at head-quarters; and drew such a 
picture of the state of the army, as renders it evident 
that, at the time in question, an attack by the enemy 



OF GEORGE WASHINGTON. 159 

might have been attended with the most unfavorable 
consequences. 

Ethan Allen, who had been omitted in the nomi- 
nations for officers of the regiment, from having 
quarrelled with Seth Warner, now offered himself as 
a volunteer to Schuyler ; who received him as a pio- 
neer to act on the frontiers of Canada. Schuylef 
was informed by Major Brown, that the Canadians 
were dissatisfied with British tyranny, and that the 
province might now be subdued at very small expense 
or risk. The province had but seven hundred royal • 
troops within it; of which three hundred held St. 
John's, fifty, Quebec, and the rest, Montreal; that 
two batteries of nine guns each, and other works, 
were erected at St. John's, where two galleys were 
almost read}'; and that Colonel Guy Johnson, with 
about three hundred men and some Indians, was at 
Montreal. Schuyler now professed himself ready to 
march against the foe, and only waited for orders from 
head-quarters. While thus waiting, he attended a 
conference held at Albany, to conclude a treaty with 
the Caughnawaga and the Six Nations, whom he had 
invited to meet him at that place. In his absence 
General Richard Montgomery commanded Ticonde- 
roga. This person was an Irishman by birth; had 
entered the American service when eighteen years 
of age; had served in the French War; had obtained 
a lieutenancy for his brave conduct at Louisburg ; had 
served under General Amherst on Lake Champlain; 
and for his services had been promoted to a captaincy 
in the West Indies. He resided in England after the 
peace of Versailles, but had sold out his commission, 



360 THE LIFE AND TIMES 

and emigrated to New York several years before the 
Revolution, There he married, and lived on his estate 
in Dutchess ^"^ounty, on the Hudson River. He had 
lately been made brigadier-general, and subsequently 
became one of the heroes of the Revolution. 

Meanwhile, several Indian chiefs of the Caughna- 
Ivaga and other tribes, appeared as ambassadors from 
their nations at Boston, and were received with great 
ceremony by the commander-in-chief at his head- 
quarters. They offered to take up the hatchet against 
the English ; and Washington sent by express to 
General Schuj'ler to ascertain the state of aftairs, and 
learn what intentions the British governor entertained 
in reference to the Indian tribes. This express arrived 
at the time when General Schuyler was holding his 
conference at Albany with the Six Nations ; he had 
just heard of the ease with which Canada could now 
be taken ; and having sent word to Montgomery to 
prepare for it, was about to proceed to Ticonderoga. 
He replied, therefore, to Washington: "I should not 
hesitate one moment to employ any savages that 
might be willing to join us." These despatches being 
sent, he hastened to Ticonderoga, but before his 
arrival, Montgomery had been informed of the com- 
pletion of the armed vessels at St. John's, and their 
destination to Lake Champlain by the Sorel River. 
The entrance to that river it became important, there- 
fore, to possess; Montgomery embarked one thousand 
men in haste, and two pieces of artillery, and sailed 
down the lake to seize the Isle aux Noix, by which 
the mouth of the stream was commanded. He left 
a letter for General Schuyler, explaining his sudden 



OF GEORGE WASHINGTON. 161 

movements, and beseeching him to follow him as 
quickly as possible, leaving the remainder of the ar- 
tillerj' to be transported when convenient Schuyler 
proceeded, suffering from sickness, on the 30th of 
August, 1775; and by travelling in a bed prepared in 
a covered batteau, overtook Montgomery at Isle la 
Motte; and assuming the command reached the Isle 
aux IsToix, twelve miles from St. John's. 

We return from following this expedition to the 
events transpiring at Boston, where the British were 
strengthening their lines, hemmed in by the besiegers 
who had received a supply of ammunition, and were 
now eager for action. Washington ordered his men 
to take an eminence on Charlestown Neck, in order to 
provoke the enemy to battle on the next day. It was 
silently done during the night, and presented to the 
astonished British, on the next morning, the aspect 
of a fortified position. Some firing then took place, 
but no sally was made ; and Washington wondered that 
the British, who despised the Americans so intensely, 
did not issue forth and attempt to terminate the con- 
test by an easy victory. Seeing that the enemy would 
not come forth, Washington employed himself in at- 
tending to the expedition which was to be sent into 
Canada by way of the Kennebec. For this purpose, 
a detachment of eleven hundred men was selected 
and encamped on Cambridge Common; and Arnold, 
vjho was then at Cambridge, adjusting his accounts, 
was intrusted by Washington with the command of 
the expedition. It was an important one, and re- 
quired both skill and courage. Arnold was deficient 
in neither, and he had been treated honorably at 
14* L 



162 THE LIFE AND TIMES 

head-quarters. He now received, beside his written 
orders, particular instructions from the general. Tho 
chief of these was, that lie should be \ery careful in 
marching through the country, to consider the irn 
habitants not as enemies, but as friends, and, by 
every means to prevent the Canadians from suffering 
insult and plunder; that any American soldier who 
should injure a Canadian or Indian, in person or pro- 
perty, should be severely punished; and, in some 
cases, death itself should not be deemed too great a 
penalty. The right to worship according to one's 
conscience was to be insisted on ; and all disrespect 
to religion and its ceremonies in the country, was to 
be avoided. It was stated particularly, in the letter 
of instructions, that should the son of Lord Chatham 
fall into the power of the Americans, he was to be 
treated with respect, on account of the eminence of 
his father. The Canadians were to be informed by 
handbills of the purposes contemplated by the expe- 
dition ; and were to be assured that ample compensa- 
tion would be given for the necessaries and accom- 
modations which they furnished. Thus Arnold, more 
fortunate than his rival Allen, marched forth with 
great spirit and ardor on the 13th of September, 1775. 
General Schuyler having proceeded along the Sorel 
River within two miles of St. John's, a cannonade 
from the fort was commenced. He landed his troops 
on a swamp half a mile in advance, and after consider- 
able loss repulsed some tories and Indians, who had 
attacked him from an ambuscade. They cast up an 
intrenchment about nightfall; and Schuyler was in- 
formed in the night, that the works of the fort were 



OF GEORGE WASHINGTON. 163 

completed, that cannon were mounted on them, and 
that a 8ixte«n-gun vessel was ready to sail to its relief. 
A council of war declared the impossibility of a suc- 
cessful siege. They then returned and fortified the 
Islo aux Noix, and threw a boom across the river to 
intercept the passage to Ticonderoga. Ethan Allen 
afterward arrived, and stated his conviction that an 
attack on St. John's and an incursion into Canada 
would be successful. Preparations for an attack were 
completed, when General Schuyler felt too ill to as- 
sume the command, being confined to his bed. Gene- 
ral Montgomery then received the charge of the ex- 
pedition. Washington was much concerned at this 
misfortune, and preferred that General Wooster 
would take precedence and the command, as he con- 
sidered Montgomery to be deficient in the energy 
which the difficult nature of the service required. 
He became, therefore, anxious about Arnold, whose 
forces he thought in danger, should the expedition of 
Schuyler be discontinued. General Wooster, how- 
ever, was not superior to Montgomery in rank, but a 
degree lower, the grade of his commission being mis- 
taken by Washington. The garrison of St. John's 
then contained a force of five or six hundred regulars, 
with two hundred militia. Its commander. Major 
Preston, being attacked, made a gallant defence. 
The necessary number of cannon was wanting to 
Montgomery; and he effected but little progress till 
the arrival of Captain Lamb from Saratoga, with a 
thirteen-inch mortar. This piece, however, produced 
but little injury to the fort, from being too far distant. 
Ethan Allen was on his way to St. John's, when he 



164 THE LIFE AND TIMES 

met Colonel Brown near Longueil, who informed him 
that the garrison at Montreal was very weak. An 
attack was then concerted. Allen was to pass over 
the St. Lawrence in canoes by night, from Longueil ; 
Brown, with two hundred men, was to cross above; 
and the two forces were to make a simultaneous attack 
on Montreal. This adventure was arranged without 
the knowledge of Montgomery. Allen crossed the 
river, but Brown did not appear. He evidently had not 
made the passage. Day dawned, and yet no signal 
was given. Allen would then have returned, but it 
was too late. Canadians and Indians commenced an 
attack on him. In a brisk action which ensued, 
a number of Americans fell ; Allen surrendered to 
Major Campbell, was marched into town, and de- 
livered over to the commanding officer. Washington 
was concerned for this capture, and hoped it would 
serve as a lesson to demonstrate the evils of in- 
subordination. 

While these events were transpiring in the north, 
armed vessels were sent by the British from Boston 
to ravage the coasts of New England, and obtain a 
Bupply of cattle and forage. Stonington was com- 
manded by Captain Wallace of the Rose, a man-of- 
war vessel. Newport was the place whence he issued ; 
and a woman was sent from Cambridge with a letter 
to Major Kane of Boston, which she was to deliver to 
Captain Wallace, or to the collector. She intrusted 
it to a Mr. Wainwood for delivery; and as he enter- 
tained suspicions in reference to its contents, he 
opened it, and found it written in cypher, which ho 
could not comprehend. From him it passed into the 



OF GEORGE WASHINGTON. 165 

hands of Henry Ward, the secretary of the colony, 
by whom it was sent to General Greene. He con- 
veyed it immediately to the commander-in-chief. 
The woman was arrested, and tradition informs ua , 
that Washington, looking from a window, beheld 
General Putnam approaching on horseback, with a 
fat woman, the prisoner, placed before him ; that the 
figure thus presented was so strikingly ludicrous, 
that Washington burst into a hearty fit of laughter; 
the only time, it is said, in which he thus indulged 
during the whole campaign. The female was con- 
ducted to the presence of Washington, who informed 
her that unless she would make a full confession in 
reference to the transaction, she should be hanged. 
She pondered over this threat for some time. On the 
one hand she saw the gallows before her; on the 
other the consequences of an avowal. The terror of 
death prevailed, and to the astonishment of every 
one, sh^^iamed Dr. Benjamin Church, a member of 
the Massachusetts House of Representatives, who 
was supposed to be a true patriot, and was surgeon- 
general of the hospitals, as the author of the letter. 
He was immediately arrested, and his papers secured. 
The latter had been previously inspected by a conti 
dant. The doctor was greatly agitated, but acknow- 
ledged that he had written the letter. He was put 
into close confinement, but was afterward allowed t(t 
embark for the West Indies, on account of his health. 
It is supposed that he was subsequently lost at sea. 

On the 11th of October, Falmouth was set on fire 
by Lieutenant Mowat, of the royal navy. Two hun- 
dred and twenty-eight stores, and one hundred and 



166 THE LIFE AND TIMES 

nine dwelling-houses were consumed; and all the 
vessels in the harbor were sunk or captured. It was 
his intention wholly to destroy Portsmouth. It was 
supposed that orders had arrived from England to 
burn all the towns which would not surrender their 
arms, and furnish hostages to the British. It was 
afterward ascertained that no such order had been 
received; but that these acts of violence had their 
origin with General Gage and Admiral Graves. 
Various ships were at this time dispatched for the pro- 
tection of the coast; and an act of the General Court 
of Massachusetts granted letters of marque and re- 
prisal to American cruisers, which were declared by 
John Adams "to be one of the most important docu- 
ments in histor}'." 

General Gage, who had lost his laurels at the battle 
of Bunker Hill, was at length recalled ; and he set sail 
for England on the 10th of October. Major-General 
Howe was appointed commander-in-chief of the colo- 
nies on the Atlantic in his place, and Major-General 
Carleton commander of the English troops in Canada. 

A committee from Congress arrived at Boston on 
the 15th of October, 1775, to hold a conference with 
"Washington and with the delegates from several of 
the colonies, and take into consideration the subject 
of putting the army on a new footing. After a ses 
sion of four days, the report which they rendered 
caused a resolution to be passed in Congress, to 
the effect that an army of twenty thousand men 
should be raised, and composed as much as possil)le 
from the troops then in service. These had been 
au listed for one year only ; and this mistake led to 



OF GEORGE WASHINGTON. 16? 

tlie most serious embarrassments during the war; 
requiring tliat process to be repeated every year, 
which ought to have been effected for several years, or 
during the continuance of hostilities. In this com- 
mittee was the celebrated Benjamin Franklin. The 
committee had uttered an intimation, that Congress 
desired Boston to be attacked, if it were possible ; but 
in a council of war which was held, it was the opinion 
of the ablest generals, that that movement would be 
inexpedient. "Washington asked the delegates how far, 
in case of a bombardment, it might be carried to the 
destruction of houses and p)roperty; but they would 
not take the responsibility on them to reply, without 
first referring the matter to Congress ; though two of 
the committee expressed the wish to see Boston in 
flames. 

General Howe now proceeded to fortify Bunker 
Hill and Boston Neck ; and to strengthen the town by 
defences on the eminences within it. Several patriots 
were shocked at witnessing the desecration of Old 
South Church, in which some of the most eminent 
divines had ministered during a century. The pulpit 
and pews were taken out, and it was turned into a 
riding-school. The North Church was used for fuel. 
These places of worship the British commander had 
stigmatized as "meeting-houses." He now issued 
proclamations, forbidding any one to leave Boston 
without his permission ; and each of those who ob- 
tained this permission was forbidden to carry more 
than five pounds' weight of baggage with him. All 
the inhabitants were commanded to arm for the pre- 
servation of order in the town. Wash'nffton, beinij 



168 THE LIFE AND TIMES 

aware that the bay would soon be frozen over which 
separated the camp from Boston, and that sokUera 
could easily cross on the ice; and that if Genera) 
Howe received reinforcements, he would desire to 
free himself from the blockade, erected batteries at 
every assailable point; and being in want of artillery' 
and ordnance stores, dispatched Henry Knox for a 
supply to the forts on Lake Champlain. 

He now made the attempt to re-enlist the troops 
then in service, and found that half of the officers who 
held the rank of captain desired to leave the army. 
Their pernicious example, he well knew, would exert 
much influence with the men. Those who came from 
one colony were reluctant to join the same regiment 
with troops from another. Some stood apart, and 
some who had declined to serve again, sent in their 
names. It was difficult to induce the soldiers to re- 
main, unless they knew the colonel under whom they 
were to serve ; and the officers had to be appointed 
first. In short, a lamentable want of public spirit be- 
came prevalent, and instead of being anxious to benefit 
their country, they felt so strong a contrary impulse, 
that the general was fearful of the consequences; and 
apprehended that General Howe, who knew the 
state of affairs, as soon as he obtained reinforcements 
would take advantage of their condition. "Washing- 
ton at this period declared, in a letter to Colonel Joseph 
Reed: "I tremble at the prospect. We have been 
enlisting three thousand live hundred men. To en- 
gage them I have been obliged to allow furloughs to 
as far as fifty men to a regiment; and the oliieers, I 
um persuaded, indulge many more. The Connecticut 



OF GEORGE WASHINGTON. 169 

troops will not be prevailed upon to stay longer tliaii 
their term." 

The mercenary spirit which characterized the troopa 
was such as to give Washington great cause for unea- 
siness; and at the close of the letter just referred to, 
he remarked that had he known what had happened 
as having been likely to take place, no possible con- 
sideration conld have induced him to accept the com- 
mand. General Greene, who entertained great admi- 
ration for the character of "Washington, and w'as happy 
to serve him, was one of his most valued friends in 
the embarrassing position in which he was now 
placed. While sympathizing with that great man in 
the immense difficulties and harassing perplexities 
which he was compelled to encounter, was of opinion 
that when Washington became better acquainted 
with the New England people, he would find them as 
brave and public-spirited as those of any other colony, 
and patriotic in the highest degree. That they were 
acquisitive, and accustomed to count the cost of every 
movement, was true ; but sentiments of honor pre- 
vailed among them, and they Avould fight with admi- 
rable fortitude for their country's liberties. 

Washington received dispatches from Schuyler, 
bearing date October 26th, which informed him of 
the capture of Chamblee and three hundred Cana- 
dians ; in which place a large quantity of military 
stores, gunpowder, and arms, was obtained, that 
were indispensable in the siege of St. John's. That 
enterprise was now vigorously pressed by General 
Montgomery, who had then heard of the capture of 
Ethan Allen. He addressed a letter to Carleton iu 
15 



170 THE LIFE AND TIMES 

reference to the indignities inflicted on Allen and his 
men at the hands of their captors, who had thrown 
them into irons ; and he threatened to retaliate upon 
the garrison of Chamblee, which was then in his 
power, if he persisted in such dishonorable treatment 
of the patriots. He demanded a reply, and allowed 
six days for its delivery; in the meantime besieging 
St. John's with vigor. 

The firing on the fort had continued during some 
hours, when word was brought that General Carleton 
had embarked on the 31st of September, at Montreal, 
in thirty-four boats, to proceed to the relief of St. 
John's, with Maclean and his famous Highlanders. 
Colonel Seth Warner's Green Mountain Boys opened 
a sudden fire on these troops as they landed at Lon- 
gueil; and after dispersing the boats, some of which 
were disabled, and others driven on shore, Carleton 
retreated to Montreal. Montgomery then ceased his 
fire, and sent to Major Preston, demanding a surren- 
der. Preston doubted the truth of the report, but 
replied that he would surrender if assistance did not 
arrive within four days. This delay was not allowed ; 
and he was then obliged at once to capitulate. The 
garrison was composed of five hundred regulars and 
one hundred Canadians. Montgomery sent his pri- 
soners to Ticonderoga. 

Maclean had reached the mouth of the Sorel, and 
was hastening onward to St. John's, when he was 
encountered by Majors Brown and Livingston, by 
whom he was forced to retreat to the mouth of the 
Sorel. • From that point he sailed down the St. Law- 
rence to Quebec. The Americans took up a position 



OF GEORGE WASHINGTON. 171 

at the rnouth of the Sorel, and erected batteries to 
prevent ships from approaching Montreal. Montgo- 
mery had not yet been apprised of Arnold's proceed- 
ings. He had experienced the greatest difficulty in 
transporting his troops from the Kennebec to Dead 
River. They had subsisted on salmon, which there 
abounded ; and having launched their boats on Dead 
River, they sailed to the foot of the great granite 
mountain chain which traverses this continent from 
south-west to north-east. His soldiers here became 
disheartened on seeing their boats upset, a large por- 
tion of their provisions destroyed, and sickness greatly 
increasing. They had a wilderness before them which 
it would require fifteen days to penetrate ; and Ar- 
nold concluded to send back the sick, who only im- 
peded his progress. He dispatched a message to the 
other commanders, desiring them to send as many 
men as they could provision for fifteen days, and 
directing the remainder to be sent back. 

"Washington was informed of these events by a let- 
ter from Arnold, who pushed forward through ice 
and snow on the bleak mountains, until, at the Chan- 
diere, he met an emissary whom he had sent in ad- 
vance to ascertain the feelings of the Canadians. He 
received a favorable report; and after distributing 
among the difl:erent companies the provisions which 
be yet possessed, he ordered them to hasten forward 
to the settlements on the Chandiere, toward which, 
without a guide, he set out. It was a perilous under- 
taking. Three of their boats were broken to pieces, 
and the crews were saved with difficulty. The car- 
goes were lost, and the party were at one time almost 



172 THE LIFE AND TIMES 

dashed over a cataract. They met a kind reception 
at the first French settlement which they reached, 
and from hence Arnold sent provisions to his famish- 
ing men. The distress of the invading troops was 
very great. They had even cooked their dogs, and 
boiled their moccasins and other leathern articles for 
food ; and some of the men had not eaten for forty- 
eight hours. They remained to recruit in the valley 
of the Chandiere for some days; and on the 9th of 
November appeared at Mount Levi ol thf» St. Law- 
rence, not far distant from Quebec. 



OP GBORQE WASHINGTON. ll'i 



CHAPTER XYIII. 

CAPTURE OF MONTREAL AND ESCAPE OF CARLETON — HOME SICKNESS 
AND INSUBORDINATION MRS. WASHINGTON IN THE CAMP AR- 
NOLD PLANTS HIS FLAG ON THE HEIGHTS OF ABRAHAM — HIS 

JUNCTION WITH MONTGOMERY AT POINT-AUX-TREMBLES THEIR 

ATTACK ON QUEBEC — GALLANT CONDUCT AND DEATH OF MONTGO- 
MERY BRAVERY OF ARNOLD HE FORTIFIES HIS POSITION AND 

CONTINUES THE BLOCKADE OF QUEBEC LORD DUNMORE IN VIR- 
GINIA LEE'S policy TRIALS OF WASHINGTON WANT OF PA- 
TRIOTISM IN THE SOLDIERS — GENERAL GREENE's INFLUENCE. 

The letters received from General Schnyler in- 
formed Washington of the events transpiring in 
Canada. On the 12th of November Montgomery ap- 
peared before Montreal, which Carleton had evacu- 
ated, having embarked the garrison on board a dozen 
small vessels. Montgomery took possession of the 
place, and soon gained the good will of the inhabi- 
tants. Intercepted letters had informed him of Ar- 
nold's arrival at Quebec, and of the intense fear 
inspired by his presence. Montgomery's intention 
was to seize Carleton, by which decisive blow he 
thought the fate of Canada would be decided. He 
prepared to attack with batteaux and light artillery, 
in order to force the party down to the mouth of the 
Sorel, on the batteries there ; but Carleton perceived 
his danger, escaped in disguise to Three Rivers, and 
thence embarked for Quebec. Garrisons were now 



174 THE LIFE AND TIMES 

placed in Montreal, St. John's, and Chamblee; and 
Montgomery hastened to descend the river, and join 
Arnold in the attack against Quebec. But his troops 
had become disorderly, and even mutinous, their time 
of service having expired. They went to Ticonde- 
roga, and being home-sick started, after being dis- 
charged by Schuyler, without even waiting for boats 
to convey them. Washington was greatly pleased 
with the capture of Montreal, and bestowed a high 
encomium on Arnold. He hoped a similarly favor- 
able account would soon arrive from Quebec, and was 
assured that Arnold would do all in his power to take 
that city by an attempt which must be successful on 
the junction of Montgomery's troops with his own. 
By this means Washington anticipated the speedy 
subjugation of Canada. 

Insubordination among the troops so disgusted 
Schuyler at this time, that he was about to retire from 
the army; and the same annoyance induced Mont- 
gomery to express a similar intention; but by the 
request of Congress, and through the influence of 
Washington, the Confederacy was spared the misfor- 
tune of losing the services of these able men, so 
essential, in the present crisis, to its interests. General 
Schuyler, throughout the whole campaign, was the 
victim of sectional prejudice; iand his enemies were 
those mean and distrustful persons who were incapa- 
ble of being influenced by generous sentiments. 

The revolutionary zeal that had manifested itself 
at the outbreak of the war now began to diminish ; 
and an ill-regulated commissariat had induced many 
soldiers to long for their homes on the expiration of 



OF GEOriGE WASHINGTON. 175 

their term of enlistment. Three thousand of tho 
minute-men and militia of Massachusetts, and two 
thousand from New Hampshire, were ordered to be 
at Cambridge, to relieve the Connecticut troops, on 
the 10th of December; and till the arrival of these, 
the troops were ordered to remain. Their officers 
assured Washington that no defection of the troops 
need be feared; but, notwithstanding this declaration, 
they left on the 1st of December, 1775, and could not 
be prevented from carrying their arms and ammuni- 
tion with them. Washington sent a list of their 
names to General Trumbull, and submitted the ques- 
tion to him, whether an example should not be made 
of these deserters of the cause of their country, in 
BO critical a period. Trumbull, with many others, 
was extremely indignant at such conduct; and so 
were the people of Connecticut, as well as the per- 
sons living on the road, who would scarcely furnish 
them necessary food. 

On the same day that these troops departed, a Ions: 
train of wagons brought into the camp the cargo of a 
captured brigantine, consisting of munitions of war, 
two thousand stand of arms, one hundred thousand 
flints, thirty thousand round shot, and thirty-two tons 
of musket balls, beside ordnance. Washington thought 
nothing could have come more opportunely. Lord 
Dunmore had been exercising martial law in Virginia, 
and the favorite abode of Washington was in danger 
of pillage. John Augustine had entreated Mrs. Wash- 
ton to leave it; and her friends earnestly advised her 
to take refuge beyond the Blue Ridge. But she did 
not think herself in danger ; and the steward of the 



l[6 THE LIFE AND TIMES 

estate, Lund Washington, thought that Lord Dun- 
more would not venture up the river. Washington, 
in accepting the command, had promised to visit 
home in tlie autumn ; and as it was likely he would 
remain all the winter hefore Boston, he sent his wife 
in November an invitation to join the camp. She com- 
plied, and travelled in her own carriage, drawn by the 
beautiful horses in which Washington so much de- 
lighted. Guards of honor attended her throughout the 
journey. Her arrival was a happj' omen to the army, 
and her presence relieved the general from much per- 
plexity. Invitations to dine with the commander were 
matters of solicitude to the officers. A disturbance 
which arose in the camp between some Virginians and 
troops from Marblehead was promptly suppressed by 
the general, who seized two athletic riflemen and held 
them apart at arm's length. "He was commanding 
in his serenest moments, but irresistible in his indig- 
nation." The ground was thus cleared of the rioters 
in three minutes. 

Arnold still remained at Point Levi, opposite to 
Quebec. His intention was to cross at once; and 
Buch a step might have succeeded, had he not wanted 
boats; for his letters to Schuyler and Montgomery 
had been carried to the lieutenant-governor, who had 
thus become aware of the danger, and had the boats 
removed. Arnold was not easily discouraged. He 
colk^'ted together forty birch canoes; but the weather 
for some days continued too tempestuous to embark. 
Reinforcements in the meantime arrived from Nova 
Scotia. Maclean, who had been driven from the 
mouth of the Sorel, had now arrived ; and the rivei 



OF GEORGE WASHINGTON. 177 

«"a8 guarded by a frigate, a sloop-of-war, and two 
armed schooners, with guard-boats, which rendered 
an attempt on Quebec hazardous in the extreme. 
He heard of the capture of St. John's by Montgo- 
mery, was roused to valorous rivalry, and attempted 
to cross the river, whose wide and rapid current re- 
quired unusual skill in the management of the canoes. 
By four o'clock in the morning he landed a consider- 
able number of his men a little above Cape Diamond, 
at a spot which the gallant Wolfe had rendered me- 
morable, and called from him "Wolfe's Cove." A 
boat belonging to the Lizard, the frigate already 
mentioned, discovered them; and not answering 
when they hailed it, it was fired into, and three men 
killed. 

Arnold led those who had landed up a craggy 
defile, without waiting for the main body; and in 
imitation of Wolfe, had planted his flag at dawn of 
day on the Heights of Abraham. The strength of 
the fortifications presented an almost insuperable ob- 
stacle to his attempt,, and a council of war was held, 
in which Arnold argued in favor of storming the gate 
of St. John's. This attempt might have been suc- 
cessful — it being open, and at that moment un 
guarded. Imprudent delay, however, rendered their 
operations abortive ; for the lieutenant-governor thus 
obtained time to array his forces, and the din of arms 
proclaimed the startling fact that the enemy was on 
the Heights of Abraham. The gate of St. John's was 
secured, and the walls properly manned. Arnold 
summoned the commandant to surrender; but hia 
flag was insulted during several days. 

M 



178 THELIFEANDTIME8 

Arnold's threats were now derided, as the inhabi- 
tants had entirely recovered from their alarm. He 
was informed of the capture of Montreal, and ascer- 
tained th?t Carleton had escaped, and was hastening 
to Quebec. He retired, therefore, to Point-aux-Trem- 
bles, twenty miles distant from Quebec, and expected 
the arrival of General Montgomery with troops atid 
cannon. A vessel at that crisis sailed by, after touch- 
ing at the Point. It contained a precious cargo ; for 
General Carleton was on board, on his way to Que- 
bec. He fortified his position, and expelled all whom 
he either suspected, or who would not aid in the de- 
fence of the place. 

Washington entertained hopes of the success of 
this enterprise, and reposed great confidence in Arnold. 
He did not doubt that he would render all the assist- 
ance in his poAver to General Montgomery after their 
junction ; and he was kept informed of the progress 
of events by General Schuyler. On the day of the 
"crisis of the army," the 31st of December, 1775, 
General Greene wrote thus: ""^y^e never have been so 
weak as we shall be to-morrow, when we dismiss the 
old troops." "Washington was not discouraged by the 
accounts which he received from Canada; and when all 
was gloomy and cheerless around him, a ray of light 
and hope beamed upon him from that distant horizon. 
The news of the junction of Montgomery with Ar- 
nold, at Point-aux-Trembles, now reached him. They 
mustered together an army of two thousand men, 
and were about to attack Quebec, which, it was sup- 
posed, would quickly surrender, if the inhabitants 
could obtain the same conditions as those accorded to 



OF GEOKGE WASHINGTON. 179 

Montreal. The hopes of the general were not des- 
tined to be realized. Montgomery arrived before 
Quebec on the 5th of December, and thought the 
works could not long be defended by "Maclean's 
banditti." This force consisted of nine hundred 
men, six hundred of whom he found with Arnold. 
He described these as being in a superior state of dis- 
cipline, and spoke of Arnold as an officer of great 
intelligence and activity. On his arrival, he sent a 
flag to the garrison, with a demand of capitulation. 
It was tired into; and he then wrote Carleton an in- 
dignant letter, renewed the requisition, and concluded 
with threats. After dispatching another messenger 
with no better effect, he prepared for the assault. 
The ground was frozen to a great depth, and was 
covered with snow. A breastwork was thrown up 
with extreme labor, made of gabions filled with ice. 
From this point, Captain Lamb opened a fire ; but pro- 
duced little effect, because his guns were too light. In 
the meantime, during five days and nights, he kept the 
garrison in a state of apprehension. On the fifth day 
Montgomery visited the battery. It had been shivered 
into fragments, and several guns were useless. It 
was abandoned during the following night. On this 
occasion Montgomery was attended by Aaron Burr, 
who was his aide-de-camp. Three weeks were thus 
consumed to little purpose; and the ill-clothed and 
ill-fed army feared the severity of a Canadian winter. 
A determination was made to take the place by esca- 
lade. One body was to fire the houses of the suburbs, 
and to force the barriers ; while the main body was 
to scale the bastion of Cape Diamond. The ladders 



180 THE LIFE AND TIMES 

were provided; a council of war called; and three 
captains in Arnold's division, whose term was nearly 
expired, would not serve unless under another com- 
mand. Montgomery overcame this adverse move- 
nient with difficulty; and transposed the arrangement 
previously made. Livingston was ordered to fire the 
gate of St. John's; Brown, to assail the bastion of 
Cape Diamond; and Arnold and Lamb to attack the 
batteries of St. Roque. Montgomery was to pass 
Cape Diamond, capture Drummond's Wharf, and 
enter the city at one end ; while an entry was to be 
made at the other by Arnold. These movements 
were all to be simultaneous; the signal, a discharge 
of rockets. At two o'clock, on the last day of De- 
cember, 1775, the troops, under cover of a snow-storm, 
set out to perform their several duties. The signal 
rockets were let off too soon, and thus gave the alarm ; 
while Livingston failed to make the feigned attack on 
the gates of St. John's. The gallant Montgomery 
descended to Wolfe's Cove, and led his men along 
the shore round Cape Diamond. The guard fled from 
the first barrier. Montgomery rushed forward, pulled 
down the pickets with his own hand, and entered. 
Terror seems to have overwhelmed the Canadians, 
for the battery was silent; and Montgomery ex- 
claimed : " Push on, my brave boys, Quebec is ours." 
When within forty paces of the battery, this heroic 
commander was slain, and two other valuable officers 
fell at the same time. The troops then retreated. 
The battle on the other side of the town was hotter 
Btill. Arnold, while gallantly leading on his men, 
was wounded in the eg, and the command devolved 



OF GEORGE WASHINGTON. 181 

on Captain Morgan; who, attacking the first barrier, 
scaled the battery, and made the captain and thirty 
men prisoners. A fire from the walls thinned the 
ranks of the Americans as he led them on to the 
second barrier. This also w^as taken, after a brave 
defence. The way to victory now seemed open ; but 
the death of Montgomery, and the retreat of Camp- 
bell, had drawn out a large detachment from Carle- 
ton; and Morgan and his men being surrounded, 
were compelled to surrender as prisoners of war. 
Arnold, wounded as he was, and dragging along his 
helpless limb, exposed to the fire of the enemy, 
assumed the command of tlie shattered forces ; and 
put his troops in such a condition as to render them 
formidable. No pursuit was therefore attempted by 
General Carleton. The remains of the gallant Mont- 
gomery were interred by Carambe, the lieutenant- 
governor, who formerly knew him ; and now honored 
him with a soldier's obsequies. The most eminent 
orators in the British Parliament displayed their elo- 
quence in laudation of his virtues; and his death was 
universally lamented. Congress directed a monu- 
ment to be erected to his memory. Four hundred 
men were lost in tins engagement. The rest fortified 
themselves within three miles of Quebec, which Ar- 
nold continued to blockade during the winter, with 
not more than five hundred effective troops. 

While these things were taking place in the north, 

a vessel was captured which Lord Dunmore had sent 

to the relief of Boston; and letters were intercepted 

to the British general, which invited him to make the 

16 



182 THE LIFE AND TIMES 

south the seat of war, and aid his operations by the 
excitement of a servile insurrection. 

The year 1775 was now closing. It was a period 
of intense anxiety to Washington, who saw his army 
gradually melting away, in spite of all his exertions. 
His appeals to their patriotism were unheeded ; and 
their homes possessed greater attractions for the 
troops, than their country's glory and welfare. Wash- 
ington was aided by none with more sympathy at 
that time, than by General Greene ; who, in the dark- 
est hours of this sad period, still indulged in cheering 
hopes, and anticipated the assembling of a full army 
within six weeks. 



OF GEORGE WASHINGTON. 183 



CHAPTER XIX. 

CONDITION OF THK ARMY — KNOX BRINGS AMMUNITION — LEE SENT TO 
NEW YORK TO PREPARE DEFENCES AND FORTIFY THE HUDSON — 
TAKES THE COMMAND IN CANADA BRITISH THEATRICALS WASH- 
INGTON'S ANXIETY PREPARATION TO TAKE DORCHESTER HEIGHTS — 

THE HEIGHTS CAPTURED, AND SURPRISE OF THE BRITISH — THEIR 

PREPARATIONS FOR EMBARKATION FROM BOSTON WASHINGTON 

ENTERS BOSTON IN TRIUMPH — CONGRESS PASSES A VOTE OF THANKS 
TO WASHINGTON, AND A GOLD MEDAL IS STRUCK REPRESENTING HIM 

AS THE DELIVERER OF THE CITY DESTINATION OF THE BRITISH 

FLEET — THE SERVICE DIVIDED INTO TWO DEPARTMENTS BY CONGRESS 

GENERAL LEE APPOINTED TO THE SOUTH GENERAL THOMAS TO 

CANADA — PUTNAM COMMANDS NEW YORK — GENERAL GREENE IN 
COMMAND AT LONG ISLAND AND BROOKLYN. 

The American army did not amount, in January, 
1 1 r6, to ten thousand eft'ective men ; and to raise even 
this force, which was distributed in half-filled regi- 
ments, it was necessary to grant the men a very large 
number of furloughs. The troops who returned home 
were required to leave their arms for those who were 
now enlisted, who either brought their own guns or 
paid a dollar a-piece for the use of arms during the 
campaign. Any one who brought a blanket received 
two dollars, and few were equipped in uniforms. 
The lines of the army were at times so extremely 
weak, that they could have been easily forced. Per- 
haps history does not present a similar instance of a 
post being maintained during six whole months with- 



184 THELIFEAND TIMES 

out a supply of ammunition ; while in the camp, one 
army was dismissed, and another organized in the 
presence of an observant and visrilant enemy. "While 
the army was reposing at night, Washington kept his 
anxious vigils; and no commanding officer, in any 
great and perilous crisis of his country's fate, delibe- 
rated with more anxiety and assiduity than did Wash- 
ington, as to the means by which he might overcome 
the enemy intrenched in Boston. He now regretted 
that he had not already made an attack on that city; 
and resolved so to do as soon as it became possible. He 
received information from Knox, whom he had sent 
to Ticonderoga for ammunition and ordinances. He 
had obtained forty-two strong sleds and fifty yoke of 
oxen, to convey stores to Springfield. This was a 
source of encouragement ; and the energy with which 
the commission was executed, was enough to evince 
the ability of the ofiicer. 

Early in January a great commotion appeared in 
Boston harbor, and arrangements were made for em- 
barking troops. An intercepted letter had been laid 
before Congress, revealing a secret plan for gaining 
over New York and Albany, through Governor 
Tryon. All those who did not join the king's forces 
were to be considered as rebels. The Hudson and 
East Rivers were to be filled with English ships of 
war, and Ticonderoga and Crown Point were to l)e 
recaptured from the Americans. This revelation ren- 
dered Congress anxious in reference to the Hudson, 
and its protection. Sir Henry Clinton w^as supposed 
to be about to lead an expedition against ISTcXv York , 
and Genera. Lee, in a letter to Washington, urged 



OF GEORGE WASHINGTON. 185 

him to act at once, and without waiting for the sanc- 
tion of Congress, to seize New York. Washington 
conferred with John Adams, one of the most iniluen 
tial members of Congress, in regard to the matter. 
He thought that town was within the limits of his 
command, as much as Boston. Lee was therefore 
directed to raise volunteers in Connecticut, and march 
at their head to New York; to put the posts on the 
Hudson in a state of defence; and to carry out the 
views of Congress in taking full possession of every- 
thing useful to the army. The people of New York 
having heard of Lee's intentions to take military 
possession of the cit}', some of them left it ; and the 
committee of safety showed the impropriety of pro- 
voking hostilities, through a letter by their chairman, 
Van Cortlandt. Lee wrote in answer that he did 
not intend to commence hostilities with the ships of 
war then riding in the harbor, but that he merely 
wished to carry into etfect the commands of the gene- 
ral, and exclude the enemy from the city and from 
Long Island. He promised to take onlj^ such troops 
with him as might be necessary to secure the city 
against the designs of the enemy. 

Washington was much disturbed when a letter 
from General Schuyler informed him of the disastrous 
events which had transpired in Canada. He could 
not spare any soldiers from Boston ; but three regi- 
ments were granted from New England, and more 
reinforcements were promised. Schuyler afterward 
forced Sir John Johnson to capitulate, and to surrendei 
all the arms and military stores which he possessed; 
and after the capitulation took place, behaved with 
16*^ 



186 THE LIFE AND TIMES 

great generosity to the fallen foe. As the province 
of New York was the central link which bound the 
Colonial Confederac}' together, Washington became 
very anxious respecting it; and looked to Gen. Lee 
to adopt such measures as were necessary to make 
headway against the enemy, as well as to conciliate the 
inhabitants. Clinton entered N'ew York on the same 
day on which Lee arrived; but only, as he said, on a 
visit to his friend Tryon. Lee had proceeded to erect 
a strong redoubt, which would contain three hundred 
men, at a point commanding the pass at Hell Gate, 
in such a manner as to exclude the enemy's ships 
from Long Island. A regiment was preparing to make 
an intrenched camp, so as to prevent the foe from 
obtaining a foothold; and in order to keep the fire 
of the ships of the enemy at due distance, batteries 
were erected behind Trinity Church. Heavy cannon 
were to be sent to defend the forts in the highlands. 
While Lee was busied in efi'ecting these changes, he 
received orders to take the command in Canada. 

The monotony in Boston during this period was 
such, that private theatricals were enacted by the 
British ofiicers ; and a farce was played called the 
"Blockade of Boston," in which Washington was 
exhibited in a big wig, and a long, rusty sword. The 
play was put an end to by General Howe, who said : 
" Officers, to your alarm posts !" It was then that 
Putnam ordered Major Knowlton to surprise and 
capture a British guard stationed at Charlestown. 
The public now began to consider Washington as 
slow in his operations, and it required much self- 
denial on his part to refrain from putting everything 



OF GEORGE WASHINGTON. 187 

on the cast of one adventurous die. Even before his 
own officers, he was compelled to conceal his situa- 
tion ; which, at that time, must have been extremely 
irksome and disagreeable. 

Washington now summoned a council of war, and 
proposed a general assault upon the British works, 
but it was declined almost unanimously, on account 
of the scarcity of ammunition. A cannonade and bom- 
bardment were deemed more advisable, when a suffi- 
cient supply of powder should be obtained. Prepa- 
rations were now made for taking Dorchester Heights 
and Noddle's Island. Colonel Knox at length arrived 
in the camp with cannons, mortars, flints, and lead 
in abundance. There came also ammunition from 
the royal arsenal in New York, and ten regiments 
of militia. Thus matters were assuming a more 
cheering aspect. Everything depended on the success 
of the attempt now about to be made. All games of 
hazard were banished from the camp ; for the troops 
were about to contend for the glorious cause of liberty, 
which was a sacred and holy enterprise. A procla- 
mation was made, that should any one attempt to 
desert he would be shot down. 

The evening of Monday, the 4th of March, 1776, 
was fixed upon for the taking of the heights. The 
ground was frozen eighteen inches deep, and was 
difficult to be intrenched. Materials had been col- 
lected some time previously, consisting of bundles of 
screwed hay, fascines, and gabions. The enemy's 
batteries were cannonaded and bombarded to call off 
the attention from the real purpose in view, and the 
spirited reply made such an overwhelming din, that 



188 THE LIFE AND TIMES 

the rumbling of wagons and ordinance carriages was 
entirely unheard, and the enemy had no suspicion of 
the purpose of the Americans. Eight hundred men, 
with intrenching tools and carts, advanced to their 
task ; and General Thomas, with the working party 
of twelve hundred men, and three hundred wagons, 
with the fascines, gabions, and screwed-hay bundles, 
eight tons in weight, made such a disposition of ma 
terials as to protect the troops from being raked by 
the enemy's shot. The whole of the detachment 
escaped observation, and reached the heights at eight 
o'clock, when they formed in two divisions; one going 
to the point nearest to Boston, the other to that 
nearest to Castle Williams. Washington inspected 
the works in person; as the men, under the eye of the 
commander, exerted themselves with greater diligence. 
They commenced fortifying by digging the frozen 
ground, under the direction of Gridley, who had super- 
intended the defences on Bunker Hill. So rapidly 
did the work progress, that on the arrival of a relief 
party at four o'clock in the morning, two forts had 
been erected capable of resisting grapeshot and small 
arms ; and the fortress exhibited such a formidable 
appearance as to inspire astonishment in the British 
camp as soon as day dawned, resembling in the cele- 
rity of its creation, the castle which was constructed 
in a night by the slave of the wonderful lamp. Howe 
looked up, and declared "the rebels had done more 
in one night, than his army would have accomplished 
in a month." Two thousand men reinforced Gene- 
ral Thomas; and Putnam, with four thousand picked 
troops, was now ready for the attack. Washington, 



OF GEORGE WASHINGTON. 189 

as he rode through the lines, reminded the men that it 
was the 5th of March, the anniversary of the Boston 
massacre ; and he stirred up their warlike enthusiasm 
to such a pitch, that they panted for action. The Ame- 
ricans now held the heights which commanded Bos- 
ton ; their shells could reach the houses and the ships; 
and the enemy must either he dislodged, or Boston 
be evacuated. 

Such was the situation of the British. Howe, 
therefore., determined on a night attack ; but when 
twenty-five hundred men were ready to embark at 
Castle Williams, the surf was so heavy that they 
could not reach the place, and a succession of stormy 
days prevented their subsequent embarkation. Mean- 
while the works of the Americans grew so strong 
that Howe despaired of success, and was necessitated 
to abandon Boston. He operated on the fears of the 
inhabitants by saying, that if his troops should be 
harassed in the evacuation of the city, he would be 
compelled to set fire to it in order to cover his retreat. 

The people did not relish this dilemma; and a paper, 
signed by the chief inhabitants, setting forth that 
General Howe had promised not to injure the city if 
his troops were permitted to retire unmolested, was 
sent into the camp on the 8th, with a flag of truce, 
and taken to head-quarters. As it was not authenti- 
cated by Howe, it received no answer from Washing- 
ton ; and while the flag returned, the Americans for- 
tilled themselves yet more strongly. On the night 
of the 9th the Americans attempted to erect a battery 
on Nook's Hill, but were discovered; and a fierce 
cannonading again terrified the Bostonians. Put- 



190 THE LIFE AND TIMES 

nam's mortar, the " Congress," burst on this occa- 
sion, and the Americans were compelled to abandon 
the undertaking for the present. 

The enemy, in preparing to depart, had ordered 
that all linen and woollen goods, and such as might 
aid the rebels in carrying on the war, should be 
given up. Under this commission such depredations 
were carried on, that it was declared that the first 
soldier who was found stealing should be hanged. 
Yet the plunder continued unchecked. Adverse 
winds delayed the embarkation of the British, and 
the Americans threw up a breastwork on Nook's 
Hill, though the enemy cannonaded them. A report 
that a general assault was now intended, hastened 
the embarkation ; and at four o'clock in the morning 
a scene of great tumult and confusion was exhibited. 
Seventy-eight ships and transports, with eleven thou- 
sand men, were preparing to depart; and their pre- 
parations being at length completed, the discomfited 
fleet set sail. The movements of the enemy had been 
watched by land and water; and the scouts sent to 
reconnoitre found sentinels posted, who remained 
motionless. They turned out, upon examination, to 
be mere efiigies. Putnam's troops were then ordered 
to occupy Boston ; General Ward's corps of five hun- 
dred men advanced from Roxbury ; and by ten o'clock 
the flag of thirteen stripes waved above the forts and 
steeples of Boston. 

On the next day Washington entered the evacu« 
ated city, and was received with great joy. There 
were traces of the bombardment all around, and 
evidences of the confusion and distress that had pre- 



OF GEORGE WASHINGTON. 191 

vailei.1 in the enemy's camp. It is said that in sailing 
out ot the harbor, General Howe had the vexation 
to receive despatches from the ministry, approving 
of his resolution to keep his post until he was rein- 
forced. The fleet lingered for some time in Nan- 
tucket Roads, and Washington threw up defences 
on Fort Hill, lest the British should attempt some- 
thing there. The fleet, however, soon vanished, and 
the applause of the nation was at length given to 
Washington, who had, with undisciplined troops, ex- 
pelled an army of veterans, marshalled under one of 
the most distinguished of British generals. On the 
motion of John Adams, Congress passed a unani- 
mous vote of thanks to Washington ; and ordered a 
gold medal to be struck, in which the deliverance of 
Boston was ascribed to him. The destination of the 
British fleet was supposed to be New York ; but 
Howe steered for Halifax, to await reinforcements 
from England, and the fleet of his brother, Lord Howe. 
As the middle and southern colonies were sup- 
posed to be the scene of the future operations of the 
enemy, Congress divided these colonies into two 
parts ; the first consisting of New York, New Jersey, 
Pennsylvania, Delaware, and Maryland ; the other 
embracing Virginia, the Carolinas, and Georgia. A 
major-general and four brigadier-generals were to 
command the northern, and a major-general and 
four brigadiers, the southern division. General Lee 
was appointed to the southern department, to watch 
the motions of Sir Henry Clinton ; and the command 
in Canada was entrusted to General Thomas, lately 
promoted to the rank of major-general. General 



102 THE LIFE AND TIMES 

Schuj'ler was ordered to superintend the defences of 
New York, the Hudson, and all the afi'airs of the 
middle department. 

Brigadier-General Lord Sterling had taken tempo- 
rary command of New York when Lee departed. 
As that city seemed to be the fujure destination of 
the British fleet, Washington sent detachments thither 
under Generals Heath and Sullivan, and wrote for 
three thousand men from Connecticut. General Put- 
nam was put in command of the whole force, with 
orders to complete the defences of the city and of the 
Hudson, as Lee had planned and commenced them. 
After sending on divisions of the main body, Wash- 
ington intended to follow. Meanwhile, the greatest 
strictness of discipline prevailed in the city, and under 
the command of Putnam. No one could pass a sentry 
without the countersign, and the ships in the harbor 
were forbidden to obtain any additional provisions. 
All communication between the ships and the shore 
was prohibited, and any person found holding such 
intercourse was to be treated as an enemy. Most of 
the works which General Lee had begun were fin- 
ished; and as Long Island and Brooklyn were pre- 
sumed to be the scene of the chief operations of the 
enemy, Washington, who was now on his way to New 
York, appointed General Greene, with a division of 
the army, to that important post. The whole Ameri- 
can force then in New York and its environs, and on 
Long Lsland and Staten Island, amounted to ten thou- 
sand men ; but on account of sickness and furloughs, 
there were not above eight thousand effective troops, 
who were without pay, and many of tbem even with- 
out arms. 



OF SBORGE WASHINGTON- 103 



CHAPTER XX. 

V0E DEFENCE OF NEW YORK AND THE HUDSON — DISASTROUS NEWS 

FROM CANADA WASHINGTON'S APPEARANCE IN CONGRESS ITS 

IMPORTANT CONSEQUENCES THE AMERICAN FORCES COMPELLED 

TO RETIRE FROM CANADA A CONSPIRACY, AND ITS SUPPRESSION 

— THE DECLARATION OF INDEPENDENCE THE BRITISH FORCES 

IN THE VICINITY OF NEW YORK ON STATEN ISLAND — IN THE 

HUDSON — DISPUTED QUESTION OF COMMAND BETWEEN GATES AND 
SCHUYLER — THE BRITISH FORCED TO GIVE UP THEIR ATTEMPT 

ON CHARLESTON THE SUCCESS OF GENERAL LEE AND COLONEL 

MOULTRIE — WASHINGTON COMMENDS THE BEHAVIOR OF THE AME- 
RICAN TROOPS. 

The defence of New York and of the Hudson was 
of the utmost importance to the Americans ; for the 
British commanders opened the campaign of 1776 
with a force, including army and navy, of fifty-five 
thousand men. New York was to be the centre of 
operations, and the navy was prepared to supply the 
army with provisions from the islands. A very great 
advantage which the royal troops possessed over the 
Americans, during the whole conflict, was the facility 
with which soldiers and the munitions of war could 
be transported from one place and one department 
of the service to another. But important as was New 
York, Canada also demanded attention, and the army 
there received a reinforcement of four regiments 
under Brigadier-General Thompson, and six regi- 
17 ■ N 



194 THE LIFE AND TIMES 

merits under Brigadier-General Sullivan. These were 
sent to join General Thomas, and were all the assist- 
ance which could then be spared. Arnold kept up 
the blockade of Quebec during the whole winter; 
and in consideration of his gallantry, he w^as raised 
by Congress to the rank of brigadier-general. He 
bad every possible disadvantage to contend against, 
from want of money, necessaries, and troops. The 
army which he commanded numbered only a few 
hundred, and sickness had much reduced them. 

General Thomas arrived at the camp during April ; 
and when tbe river became clear of ice, he resolved 
to make a bold effort to take Quebec. His plan was 
to scale the walls while the enemy's vessels were en- 
veloped in flames from a fire-ship which he intended 
to send among them. The plan failed; and General 
Carleton in return made a sortie with nearly a thou 
sand men. As the Americans could not resist so 
large a force, being able to muster only three hun- 
dred men at any given point, they lost their artillery, 
baggage, and almost all beside, and left even the sick 
behind them. General Thomas halted at Point De- 
chambault, and in a council of w^ar they resolved to 
proceed farther up the river. The despatches of 
General Thomas had greatly discouraged General 
Schuyler, but Washington hoped that the losses in- 
curred were not irretrievable. The news of these 
disasters, however, produced such an effect in the 
New Hampshire Grants, that it operated disadvanta- 
geously against Schuyler; and much ill-will was 
already manifested. Bold imputations against his 
conduct and character were now made, of which h« 



OF GEORGE WASHINGTON. 195 

took no notice at the time. At length, however, he 
insisted on an examinatior heing made into them, 
and the scrutiny ended in his honorable acquittal. 
As the events transpiring in Canada were highly im- 
portant, Washington sent General Gates to Congress 
with the despatches ; and that body conferred on the 
bearer the rank of major-general. 

Washington was now summoned to Philadelphia, 
to confer with Congress in reference to the campaign. 
He set out accompanied by Mrs. Washington, leav- 
ing Putnam to command the troops in New York in 
his absence. Several important consequences fol- 
lowed this conference with the Congress. It was re- 
solved that soldiers should be enlisted for three years, 
and a bounty of ten dollars be given to each sol- 
dier. Thirteen thousand eight hundred militia were 
to reinforce New York till December 1st, 1776, and 
a flying camp of ten thousand militia was to be sta- 
tioned in Jersey. Washington was empowered to 
call on the neighboring colonies for aid from their 
militia, if he deemed it necessary. A regular war- 
office was also established, which was an important 
improvement, inasmuch as Congress had previously 
been referred to in every case, by which process much 
time was frequently lost. 

The despatches received from Canada at this period 
were ladened with news of disasters. General Arnold 
liad left Colonel Bedell m command of a post called 
the " Cedars;" andBedfell, having heard of a large force 
setting out to attack him, placed Major Butteriield in 
command, and hastened to Montreal for reinforce- 
ments. Arnold sent a hundred men under Major 



196 THE LIFE AND TIMES 

Sherbourne to the relief of the post, and prepared to 
follow in person with a larger force. The whole affair 
turned out most unfortunately. In the meantime the 
"Cedars" were besieged, and the troops were com- 
pelled to surrender; the party of Sherbourne was 
attacked and captured by Indians; and Arnold, who 
set out in the pursuit, could effect nothing except an 
agreement with Captain Foster, that the captives 
should be exchanged for a like number of equal rank. 
Washington, on hearing of these events, became 
anxious about Montreal, the loss of which would now 
be in substance the loss of Canada. General Thomas, 
having retreated to the mouth of the Sorel, found 
General Thompson preparing for its defence; and 
being taken ill with the small-pox, went to Chamblee, 
where he died of that disease on the 2d of June, 
General Wooster having been recalled. General Sul- 
livan took the command, and soon joined General 
Thompson, whom he detached to aid St. Clair. The 
latter had been sent to the Three Rivers, to check the 
operations of Colonel Maclean. His orders were, not 
to attack Three Rivers, unless with a certain pros- 
pect of victory. The accounts sent by Sullivan to 
General Washington were full of encouragement and 
hope. The commander-in-chief had correctly esti- 
mated the merits of that officer in a letter to the 
President of Congress; but in the meantime, that 
body had appointed Major-General Gates to the com- 
mand of the troops in Canada. The aspect of affairs 
was now changed. The enemy was reinforced with 
thirteen thousand men; and General Thompson, who 
was not aware of this fact, and intended to effect a 



OF GEORGE WASHINGTON. 197 

Burprise at Three Rivers, was led by treacherous 
guides into a morass ; was cannonaded in passing 
through it; and on arriving at Three Rivers, was at- 
tacked b}'^ General Frazer, repulsed, and he and Colo- 
nel Irvine were captured. Two hundred prisoners 
\^ere made, and twenty -five persons killed. The re- 
mainder were driven through the swamp, and after 
enduring great suffering, found their way back to the 
Sorel. General Sullivan contended manfully against 
every misfortune. A council of war being summoned, 
he was induced to leave the Sorel; after having dis- 
mantled the fortifications, and taken his guns along 
with him, he was joined by Arnold and the garrison 
of Montreal; and having destroyed everything at 
Chamblee and St. John's, continued his retreat to the 
Isle aux Noix, where he waited for further orders. 
Having obtained these, he embarked for Crown 
Point; and thus terminated the memorable but fruit- 
less invasion of Canada. 

A conspiracy was organized at this time, by. the 
Tories in the city of New York and on Long Island, 
for the purpose of assisting the enemy in their ap- 
proach to New York ; and it was resolved that Wash- 
ington should either be captured or slain by the con- 
spirators. The plot was detected, and one of the 
general's body-guard hanged as an accomplice. While 
the public were yet pondering upon this event, f jur 
ships-of-war anchored in the bay. The troops which 
had lately been expelled from Boston, and six trans 
ports filled with Highland troops, were now in sight. 
Washington knew that General Howe was waiting 
for h^s brother to commence hostile demonstrations. 
17* 



198 THE LIFE AND TIMES 

He ordered all the troops, on the 2d of July, to pre- 
pare for a coTiflict which was to be decisive in its 
effects; promising that acts of braver}^ would be re- 
warded, and those of cowardice would meet with 
punishment. While the city was thus threatened, the 
Congress at Philadelphia was engaged in deliberating 
on the momentous question of American independ- 
ence ; and on the 2d of July, 1776, resolutions were 
unanimously passed, that these united colonies were, 
and ought of right to be, free and independent States. 
This declaration was hailed with joy by Washington, 
on the 9th of July; and he ordered it to be read at six 
o'clock in the evening, at the head of ever}' brigade. 
The populace of New York pulled down the statue of 
George III. in the Bowling Green. It was afterward 
broken up, and being made of lead — a very appro- 
priate and significant material. — it was melted into 
bullets. Washington censured this display of enthu- 
Biasm, or at least the part which some of the soldiers 
had taken in the transaction, as exhibiting a want of 
discipline. Several other ships appeared on the 12th 
of July in the bay, and joined the hostile fleet. The 
Phoenix and Pose, emboldened by this accession of 
strength, sailed up the Hudson. The batteries of the 
city, and on Paulus Hook, fired upon them as they 
passed ; and the city was full of consternation. Wash- 
ington suspected that their purpose might be to com- 
mand the passes of the highlands; and as Forts 
Montgomery and Mifilin were not completed, he sent 
an express to General Mifflin, advising him to be on 
liis guard, and he dispatched orders to others in com- 
mand, in important places, to tlie same eflect. George 



OF GEORGE WASHINGTON. 193 

Clinton had been appointed brigadier-general of tb*^ 
militia in Ulster and Orange Counties. Washington 
wrote to him to protect the highlands against the 
enemy with all the forces he could obtain. But he 
had already anticipated the order. Three regiments 
had been sent to Fort Montgomery, Forts Constitu- 
tion and ISTewburgh ; and all the other regiments 
were placed in readiness for immediate action. Clin- 
ton directed also that all the boats should be drawn 
off, so as to keep them from grounding; and after 
having visited Fort Constitution, fixed his head- 
quarters at Fort Montgomery. Here he received 
AVashington's letter, and in his reply bore witness to 
the patriotism of the yeomanry in leaving their fields 
in the defence of their country. 

While these events were passing in the highlands, 
the danger had become imminent at the mouth of 
the Hudson ; every one admired the great size of a 
noble man-of-war vessel which now hove in sight in 
the bay ; and each ship of the enemy's fleet compli- 
mented her with a thundering salute as she sailed by. 
She bore the flag of St. George, and it soon became 
rumored that it was the Admiral's ship, and that 
Lord Howe had arrived. Such indeed was the fact. 
A formidable British force had now assembled; and a 
contest with it, at fearful odds, was soon to task to 
the utmost the capacities of Washington and tlie 
American troops. 

The Assembly of the colony of New York, located 
at White Plains, had a secret committee. To them 
Washington now wrote, suggesting the policy of re- 
moving from New York and the vicinity, all who 



200 THE LIFE AND TIMES 

were known to be enemies to the patriotic cause 
Thirteen persons then in confinement, were taken tc 
Litchfield jail in Connecticut; among them was a 
certain major, who had been suspected of treachery; 
but on being seized, and his papers examined, no- 
thing was discovered that criminated him. Lord 
Howe was opposed to the continuance of hostilities. 
One of his first movements after his arrival, was to 
proclaim the extensive powers which were invested in 
his brother and in himself, to make peace; to urge 
upon any who had left their allegiance, to return to 
it; and promised a free pardon to all who did so. 
He added that all those who rendered any service to 
the British domination would, when the war was 
ended, meet with due consideration. The Declara- 
tion of Independence had preceded him ; but it was 
hoped by the British that the royal cause would find 
partisans by the proiFer of these inducements. 

In a few days Lieutenant Brown, 'of the British 
Navy, was sent with a flag of truce from Lord Howe, 
and a letter addressed to "George "Washington, Esq." 
He expressed the desire to hold a conference with 
Mr, Washington. Colonel Eeed replied to the bearer 
that he knew of no such person in the American 
army as Mr. Washington ; and said that a letter thus 
addressed could not be received. The lieutenant re- 
gretted that fact, as the letter was of an amicable 
spirit and import; adding, that Lord Howe had 
lamented the lateness of his arrival, and had very 
extensive powers intrusted to him by the P)ritish 
monarch. As Colonel Reed would not receive the 
letter, the lieutenant inquired by what name General'^ 



OF GEORGE WASHINGTON. 201 

then, correcting himself — Mr. Washington, should be 
addressed. Colonel Reed replied that his station in 
the American army was such, that his proper title was 
universally known. The adjutant-general of the Bri- 
tish commander, Colonel Patterson, was afterward sent 
by General Howe to Washington ; and was received 
with ceremonial courtesy — the reception being held 
by the American commander in the midst of his 
guards. The colonel addressed him as his Excellency, 
daring the conversation which ensued, and produced 
a letter addressed to "George "Washington, Esq., &c., 
&c.," the writer doubtless expecting that the et ceteras, 
which were ambiguous, and implied everything, 
would remove all obstacles of military etiquette. 
Washington replied that the "et ceteras" signified 
everything, but they also might mean anything; that a 
letter written to a person of an official character should 
be designated by a definite title, whereby it could be 
properly distinguished ; and on this account he de- 
clined receiving a communication addressed to him 
as a private person. Colonel Patterson then explained 
the power which Lord Howe and his brother pos- 
sessed for effecting an accommodation between the 
two countries. Washington replied, their power 
seemed to be only to grant pardons : but those who 
lu*.l committed no offence- required no pardon. The 
applause of Congress was subsequently received by 
Washington ; and the public admired the dignity 
with which he maintained his position on this occasion. 
The Phoenix and Rose had roused a spirit of resist- 
ance as they proceeded along the Hudson ; and the 
mountain passes of this river were deemed so import- 



202 rnE life and times 

ant, that the New York Convention urged the militia 
to protect the military stores collected at Peekskill, 
ai-d to guard every avenue to the highlands. The 
Tappaan Sea and Haverstraw Bay were watched with 
vigilance by Colonel Pierre Van Cortlandt, along 
their eastern shore ; Colonel Hay observed the west- 
ern as far as the Donderberg. The two ships cast 
anchor both in the Tappaan Sea and Haverstraw Bay, 
keeping up communication with the shore. As the 
vessels approached Fort Montgomery, a guard was 
prepared to light a blazing fire in case of any alarm. 
By this means, it was expected the fort would obtain 
an opportunity to fire at the ships by the assistance 
of the light. Five rafrs also were to be brought, and 
an iron chain to be cast across the river, from Fort 
Montgomery to the foot of Anthony's Nose. Whale- 
boats were prepared to reconnoitre; and galleys, with 
nine pounders at the bows, were made ready for 
action. 

Washington was anxious, during this period, in 
reference to the prevention of an irruption from 
Canada; and the question of superior command, dis- 
puted between Generals Gates and Schuyler, gave 
him much uneasiness. Gates considered the army in 
Canada under his authority, after that province had 
l)een evacuated ; while Schuyler contended that the 
conmiand of the army of the north was his alone. 
The two generals agreed to refer the dispute to Con- 
gress for adjustment; and in the meantime to co-ope- 
rate. They set out together, and reached Crown 
Point, after suftering much on Lake Champlain from 
leaky boats, without awnings, under a burning sun, 



OF GEORGE WASHINGTON. 203 

the arm J suffering from small-pox; with scarcely any 
medical stores, and with little food except rancid 
pork and hard biscuit. About six thousand men 
reached Crown Point, half of whom were sick; and 
two thousand eight hundred were sent to a hospital 
at the south end of Lake George. A council of war 
agreed that Crown Point was no longer tenable, and 
that it was more advisable to strengthen the defences 
at Ticonderoga. General Sullivan had taken great 
offence at the appointment of General Gates over 
him, and he now obtained leave of absence. Prepa- 
rations were made for strengthening Ticonderoga, 
and for encamping the troops with all possible dis- 
patch. Arnold joined Gates and Schuyler on the 9th 
of July, 1776 ; and Colonel Trumbull, who had been 
making observations, had fixed on a location for a 
fortress, where Fort Independence was subsequently 
built. At the place where Lake George separates 
from Lake Champlain, he advised another fort to be 
built ; but, unfortunately, his advice was not taken, 
and Fort Defiance was afterward erected on the same 
spot, — an eminence that commanded both lakes, at 
the narrowest part of each. Carpenters from th( 
Eastern States were emploj-ed to construct hulls and 
boats to be sent to Ticonderoga, under the command 
of Arnold. Congress decided the disputed question 
of command by informing Gates, that his commission 
was independent of General Schuyler only when the 
army operated in Canada. Gates professed to be 
satisfied with this decision, but his jealousy was much 
inflamed by his friend, the commissary Trumbull. 
Genera] Sullivan, who had proceeded to Philadelpijia 



204 THE LIFE AND TIMES 

for the purpose of resigning his commission, received 
Euch an explanation as induced him to retain it, and 
remain in the service. The sectional jealous}- also, 
which sprang up at this period among the troops, was 
a source of great anxiety to the commander. The 
Southern soldiers entertained very unfriendly feelings 
toward those of IS'ew England. The troops of Con- 
necticut, in particular, were laughed at by their fellow- 
soldiers, on account of some peculiarities which they 
possessed. The Connecticut light-horse refused to 
descend from their horses, and became very turbulent 
\\hen required to mount guard. Colonel Seymour, 
their commanding officer, sent a note to Washington 
informing him that, by the laws of Connecticut, their 
light-horse were exempted from garrison duty, and in 
fact from every service w^hich separated them from 
their horses ; and that, therefore, they had not ex- 
pected to be called upon to perform such service. 
They were dismissed, according to their request; and 
Washington told them, in a reply that proved that 
his feelings were deeply hurt, that if they would not 
do service separate from their horses under circum- 
stances in which they could not possibly be used, he 
did not regret their departure. 

Washington now receiv^ed from General Lee an 
account of Clinton's southern cruise, who had been 
outwitted at all points b}' that general; in ]S"ew York, 
in the first instance, and afterward when he stopped 
at jSTurfolk, Virginia, and in a bold attempt which he 
had made on Charleston. Fort Johnson, on James' 
Island, three miles distant from Charleston, which 
had full command of the channel, was defended by 



OF GEORGE WASHINGTON. 20^ 

Colonel Gadsden, and a regiment of regulars. Fort 
Moultrie, on Sullivan's Island, was defended by three 
hundred and seventy-five men, beside militia, under 
Colonel Moultrie. It contained twenty-six guns; 
was called after the name of its gallant commander; 
and, together with James' Fort, commanded the en- 
trance to the harbor. Haddrell's Point, northwest of 
Sullivan's Island, had also mounted cannon. General 
Lee found the town defenceless. The British troops 
were landed on Long Island, and Sir Henry Clinton 
attacked Fort Moultrie with all his forces, in the be- 
lief that its capture would lead to that of Charleston. 
"Works were thrown up by the Americans on the 
northeastern part of Sullivan's Island ; and Colonel 
Thompson, with the regulars and militia, was sta- 
tioned there to defend the passage over the Breach — 
a creek that separates Long Island from Sullivan's 
Island. Lee encamped on Haddrell's Point. The 
fleet advanced under Sir Peter Parker on the 28th of 
June, 1776, and threw shells into the fort. The ships 
anchored opposite the batteries at eleven o'clock. 
General Lee was very apprehensive of the result, 
from the little confidence which he reposed in the 
troops; but on sending to ascertain the spirit of the 
garrison, he found that they intended to fight with 
unflinching resolution. Having passed over in the 
boat to encourage them, he found that after twelve 
hours of incessant firing, the defence was so gallant 
that he had never witnessed a better display of forti- 
tude. The fortifications were partly constructed of 
palmetto wood, which is yielding in its nature, does 
not splinter, but closes on the ball. In the hottest 
18 



206 THE LIFE AND TIMES 

moment of the attack, the powder failed the Ameri- 
cans; but more being supplied, they kept up a spirited 
tiring, during which the ship Actseon ran aground, 
and the others, that had borne the brunt of the con- 
flict, were much injured. One hundred and seventy. 
five men were killed, and as many were wounded. 
Captain Morris, of the Actseon, and Lord Campbell, 
a volunteer, and late governor of the province, were 
among the slain. Colonel Thompson, with his men 
and cannon, prevented Sir Henry Clinton from cross- 
ing to attack the fort, and the combat terminated 
before ten o'clock. Sir Peter Parker had been injured 
by a contusion, and at length drew ofi' his ships to 
Five Fathom Hole. Sir Henry Clinton, who again 
attempted to cross to Sullivan's Island, was beaten 
back. Sir Peter Parker at length became convinced 
that, in the present condition of his ships, he could 
accomplish nothing. He therefore gave orders to 
abandon the Actseon, after having set her on fire. 
After this command was obeyed, and her crew had 
left her, the Americans pulled her colors down, and 
kept them as a trophy; fired ofif her guns at the ships 
of the enemy, and carried oflf three boat-loads of her 
stores. The attempt of the British on Charleston 
became abortive, and was thus abandoned, and the 
fleet put out again to sea. The American loss on this 
occasion was thirty-five men killed and wounded; 
and for his gallantry in this, which was one of the 
severest actions of the whole war, Colonel Moultrie 
deserved and received much applause. 

This repulse of the enemy caused great satisfaction 
to Washington; and in a letter written to Schuyler 



OF GEORGE WASHINGTON. 207 

at this date, he remarked that " Sir Peter Parker and 
his ileet got a severe drubbing." On July 21st, 
1776, in an address made to the continental army, 
the commander-in-chief expressed a hope, that the 
heroic example thus set them might stimulate the 
troops to outdo the brave efibrts of the noble defenders 
of their country's liberties, whenever the enemy 
sliould make a similar attack upon them. Said he : 
"This generous example of our troops under the like 
circumstances with us, the general hopes, will animate 
every officer and soldier to imitate, and even outdo 
them, when the enemy shall make the same attempt 
on us. With such a bright example before us, of what 
can be done by brave men fighting in defence of their 
countrj', we shall be loaded with a double share of 
shame and infamy, if we do not acquit ourselves with 
courage ; and manifest a determined resolution *^o 
conquer or die." 



208 THE LIFE AND TIMES 



CHAPTER XXI. 

ADVICE OP COLONEL REED — ARRIVAL OF FOREIGN TROOPJ TO AID TUB 
BRITISH — SECTIONAL DIFFERENCES OF THE AMERICANS, AND HOW 
•WASHINGTON TREATED THEM ILLNESS OF GENERAL GREENE — PRE- 
PARATIONS FOR ACTION ON BOTH SIDES THE UNGUARDED PASS 

THE MIDNIGHT MARCH THE BATTLE OF LONG LSLAND — DEFEAT OF 

THE AMERICANS WASHINGTON'S DISTRESS THE RETREAT FROM 

LONG ISLAND — LORD HOWE AND THE AMERICAN COMMISSIONERS 

A chevaux-de-frise was erected by General Putnam 
to prevent the enemy's ships from passing the fort; 
for some of them had already sailed up the Hudson, 
notwithstanding the batteries of Fort Washington. 
A number of galleys and fire-ships also were pre- 
pared; but they were too late to be of service. In a 
few days a ver}^ large fleet of ships arrived, bringing 
British troops, and with them were one thousand 
Hessians. Their disembarkation was effected on 
Staten Island, and the highest hills were fortified, so 
that the projected attempts at an attack were now 
useless. It was the advice of Colonel Reed, that after 
the interruption of communication by the Hudson 
had taken place, ihere was nothing to retain the 
American troops at New York, which should there- 
fore be evacuated, burned, and a retreat be made to 
Manhattan Island ; that a general action should be 
avoided, and the policy be adopted, of making the con- 
flict one of outposts. At the end of July, or early in 



OF GEORGE WASHINGTON. 209 

August, 1776, other ships of war arrived, and dis- 
embarked a body of Scotch Highlanders, Hessians, 
and other forces on Staten Island. About the same 
time the troops of Clinton arrived from the south, 
and were accompanied by Lord Cornwallis and his 
army. The enemy's f)rce about, New York now in- 
cluded thirty thousand eflective men. The American 
army destined to oppose them numbered about seven- 
teen thousand; of whom one-fourth were on the sick 
list, and while many were absent on furloughs, the 
rest were distributed at stations fifteen miles distant 
from each other. Their sectional jealousies also gave 
much uneasiness to Washington. The army being 
collected from different parts of the country, and filled 
with partialities of a local nature, disrespectful lan- 
guage was often used by the officers toward each 
other. Discord arose on this account ; and the sol- 
diers imitated in this respect the conduct of their su- 
periors. Washington at this crisis made a patriotic 
appeal to the army in these words: "The general 
most earnestly entreats the officers and soldiers to 
consider the consequences ; that they can in no way 
assist our enemies more efifectually, than by making 
'livisions among ourselves; that the honor and suc- 
cess of the army and the safety of our bleeding coun- 
try, depend upon harmony and good agreement with 
each other ; that the provinces are all united to oppose 
the common enemy, and all distinctions sunk in the 
name of an American. To make this name honor- 
able, and to preserve the liberty of our country, ought 
to be our only emulation ; and he will be the best sol- 
dier, and the best patriot, who contributes most to 
18* 



210 THE LIFE AND TIMES 

this glorious work, whatever his station, or from what- 
ever part of the continent he may come. Let all dis- 
tinctions of nations, countries, and provinces, there 
fore, be lost in the generous contest, who shall behave 
with the most courage against the enemy, and the 
most kindness and good-humor to each other. Jf 
there be any officers or soldiers so lost to virtue and 
a love of their country as to continue such practices 
after this order, the general assures them, and is au- 
thorized by Congress to declare to the whole army, 
that such persons shall be severely punished, and dis- 
missed from the service with disgrace." 

This earnest appeal "U'as not without its effect : but 
the troops from each State were kept together as 
much as possible, and were commanded by officers 
from their own State. The enemy's attack was con- 
stantly expected, and every point required to be 
guarded with vigilance, as New York was accessible 
to small boats, which might be detached in a variety 
of places. Mrs. AVashington had repaired to Phila- 
delphia, and the other wives of officers who had been 
in New York, left that city when danger approached. 
Important State papers were placed in a large case, 
to be sent to Congress; and all persons who were 
objects of suspicion, were removed. Indications be- 
came very clear that affairs now approached a crisis ; 
and as the inhabitants became greatly alarmed on 
the approach of the ships-of-war, it was proclaimed 
by the general's orders, that as many as possible 
should remove from the city, which was soon ex- 
pected to be the scene of a deadly combat. Signs 
of a meditated attack now began to appeal, and as 



OF GEORGE WASHINGTON. 211 

its precise point was doubtful, "Washington retained 
most of his troops in the city for its defence. It was 
rumored that the enemy would in all probability at- 
tempt to get possession of the heights of Brooklyn, 
which overlook New York ; but General Heath was 
of opinion, that Lord Howe would prefer to make an 
attack on Kingsbridge, in preference to an assault on 
the strong works erected in the city ; in which case 
the inexperienced recruits composing the continental 
troops would be compelled to contend with a well- 
disciplined army which had the facilities for action 
both by land and water. 

General Greene had command of a considerable 
force in Brooklyn. He was perfectly familiar with 
every part of the island, and he fortified and disposed 
of his troops in the most advantageous manner. The 
rapid tides of the Sound, or East River as it is there 
called, separates New York from Brooklyn, at a dis- 
tance of three-fourths of a mile. The deep inlets of 
Wallabout Bay and Gowanus Cove form the penin- 
sula on which Brooklyn is situated, and strong re- 
doubts and intrenchments ran along from the bay to 
near the cove; while a battery at Red Hook, and a 
fort on Governor's Island, almost opposite to it, de 
fended the rear portion of the works from the ships 
of the enemy. Two miles in front of the defences, a 
barrier of a range of hills ran across the island, from 
southwest to northeast. Three roads traversed tho 
island — one passing easterly to Bedford, and then 
through the Bedford hills to the village of Jamaica ; 
another went to Flatbush ; and the third, by Gowa- 
nus Cove to the Narrows. 



212 THE LIFE AND TIMES 

A knowledge of these roads was important; and it 
80 happened that General Greene, who was particu- 
larly well acquainted with them, was confined to bed 
by a fever, and the command was held by General 
Sullivan, who had returned from. Lake Champlain. 
It was ascertained, on the 21st, that twenty thousand 
men had embarked, to attack Long Island and other 
places along the Hudson; that fifteen thousand men 
who were to assault Elizabethtown, Bergen Point, 
and Amboy, remained on Staten Island ; and that 
the British commander ha'l ordered no quarter to be 
given. 

On the 22d of August the inhabitants of the city 
were alarmed by the report of cannon, and it was re- 
ported that several thousand troops had landed at 
Gravesend, with artillery and cavalry. This informa- 
tion gave Washington reason to think that the force 
was intended to surprise the lines, and he sent over six 
battalions, and five others were held in readiness, if 
they should be required. Washington exhorted them 
to "be cool but determined; to reserve their fire; 
and in case any one attempted to skulk, or lie down, 
or retreat, without orders, he was instantly to be shot 
down as an example." The possession of the heights 
of Brooklyn would give the enemy command of New 
York; and many of the inhabitants were distrac;ted 
with fear. A report became current that the inten- 
tion of Washington was to barn the city, should' the 
American army retreat from it; but the general as- 
sured the New York Convention that there was no 
foundation for the report ; that he appreciated the 
value of such a ^ity ; and that nothing but the last 



OF GEORGE WASHINGTON. 213 

necessity, and the most cogent reasons, could induce 
him to issue such an order. 

Nine thousand British, with fortycannon, now landed 
under Sir Henry Clinton, who was first in command, 
Earls Cornwallis and Perc}', General Grant, General 
Sir William Erskine. Colonel Hand, on their ap- 
proach, fell back on a wooded hill commanding the 
Flatbush road ; and while the army was divided 
through Utrecht and Flatland, Lord Cornwallis, being 
detached with two battalions of light-infantry, a corps 
of Hessians, and six field-pieces, advanced to seize 
the hills. Being opposed by -Hand and his riflemen, 
he took up his position at Flatbush. General Wash- 
ington, in crossing over on the 24th to Brooklyn, 
observed the lines, scrutinized the locality, and felt 
the want of General Greene. While the forces of 
the enemy extended beyond the hilly chains, the ad- 
yance of the Americans lay along the wooded hills, 
iinder Colonel Hand. A road from Flatbush to Bed- 
ford, by which the left of the Brooklyn works would 
be accessible to the enemy, was guarded on the north 
side by a regiment under Colonel Williams, and on 
the south side by Colonel Miles, with anothor regi- 
ment of Pennsylvania riflemen. 

Firing had already taken place between the out- 
posts, and Washington saw with concern tL« want of 
system that prevailed among the oflicerd, and the 
independent action of each corps, which fired upon 
the enemy in an irregular manner, and advanced in 
groups or singly, as impulse dictated. Putnam was 
therefore put in command of Long Island, with orders 
to restrain the irregularities of r.he troops ; to forai 



214 THE LIFE AND TIMES 

intrcncliments and defences in places best suited for 
them ; and to station guards on the lines, to be under 
the inspection of a brigadier. The strictest orders 
were given ; the field-officers were required to go the 
rounds, and observe the situation of the guards, while 
no one could pass the lines without written permis- 
sion. The interior works were to be manned by 
militia, the most reliable troops were to defend the 
passes, and prevent the approach of the enemy. 

The watchful eyes of Washington observed the 
augmentation of the enemy's forces on the 25th; and 
he sent as reinforcements, in addition to those already 
in position, the well-disciplined Delaware regiment, 
under Colonel Hazlett. These were joined by the 
Southern troops which formed Lord Stirling's brigade. 
These reinforcements were among the best troops in 
the American army. Washington, on crossing over 
on the 25th, observed a general movement on the 
part of the enemy's fc^rces ; for General de Heister 
occupied Flatbush with his Hessians, and commanded 
the centre; while diagonally, to his right, Sir Henry 
Clinton led the right wing to the Flatlands, and Gene- 
ral Grant extended the left to Gravesend Bay. After 
aiding Putnam with his counsels during the day, the 
General returned to i^ew York, and passed an anxious 
night, in expectation of a general attack on the mor- 
row. On the evening of the 26th, about nine o'clock, 
Sir Henry Clinton began to march with the vanguard 
of light-horse. The centre was formed by Lord 
Percy with grenadiers, light dragoons, and artillery ; . 
while Lord Cornwallis wuth the heavy ordnance 
formed the rear. General Howe attended the last 



► OF GEORGE WASHINGTON. 215 

division, and a silent march brought the troops to 
the Jamaica road. They then halted, k) prepare for 
ati attack on the pass through the Bedford hills, and 
learned with wonder that it had been left unguarded, 
as indeed was the road between Bedford and Ja- 
maica, to a great extent. Orders had been issued to 
patrol the road occasionally, but the pass was left un- 
defended. Whether this point was included in Gene- 
ral Greene's plan is uncertain; or whether it was 
deemed too distant, and not needing attention, it is 
difficult to determine ; but the neglect was an unfor- 
tunate circumstance, and destined to produce a disas- 
trous result. A detachment from Sir Henrj^ Clinton 
soon secured the pass, and he held the heights at the 
dawn of day. He pursued his unperceived way on 
till near to Bedford, and refreshed his troops before 
leading them to the encounter. 

In the silence of midnight the left wing, under 
General Grant, marched from Gravesend Bay along 
the road by the Narrows and Gowanus Cove to the 
right of the American works. His force consisted of 
two brigades, a regiment of regular troops, a bat- 
talion of New York royalists, and ten cannon. Lord 
Stirling was ordered to hold the advancing enemy in 
check with Hazlett's Delaware regiment, and Small- 
wood's Delaware troops. He marched in haste toward 
the Narrows. At Gowanus Cove they were informed 
of the approach of the enemy, and Atlee was sta- 
tioned in ambush with the militia of Pennsylvania 
and New York ; while Stirling formed his troops on 
a ridge leading to the summit of a wooded hill. 
Lord Stirling was reinforced by a party of riflemen, 



216 THE LIFE AND TIMES 

whom be arranged in the wood near, and at the foot 
of, the hill ; while General Grant posted his light 
troops in the advance, behind the hedges. 

The British and American riflemen fired during the 
space of two hours ; and Stirling obtained an acces- 
sion of force by the arrival of Captain Gardiner and 
two pieces of artillerj^, which were placed to command 
the road. A cannonading commenced as soon as 
General Grant brought his artillery within three hun- 
dred yards. An attack had been commenced by De 
Heister, by the discharge of artillery from Flatbush, 
the redoubt in which Hand had stationed the rifle- 
men ; and General Sullivan rode fon^^ard to make 
observations, while a brisk firing took place between 
the redoubt and De Heister's artillery. The left of 
the Americans was soon turned by Sir Henry Clinton ; 
and Sullivan, who now realized the fatal truth that 
he was in danger of being surrounded, remained no 
longer to defend the redoubt, which Count Donop, 
with his Hessians, and De Heister, with his entire 
division, were attacking. Sullivan could not retire 
to the lines ; for the British drove the troops back, 
and a wholesale slaughter was commenced by the 
Hessians, against whom the Americans fought with 
desperate valor. Some of them cut their way to the 
lines; others retreated to the woods; many were 
killed or captured, and General Sullivan was taken 
prisoner. 

Washington had now crossed over to Brooklyn, 
and urged his horse up to the works at full speed. 
He had seen the final catastrophe approach, and was 
unable to prevent it. Lord Stirling and his corpg 



OF ,iEORaE WaSHINOTON. 217 

were the chief objects of his anxiety. He saw the 
danger which threatened some of his choicest troops ; 
and with his telescope he surveyed the hill on which 
he beheld the reserves of Cornwallis. Stirling knew, 
from the cannonading of the foe, that he was cut off 
from the lines. He attempted to reach them by a 
circuitous road, by crossing Yellow Mills, a creek 
which falls into Gowanus Cove. But just as he left 
some of his troops to face Colonel Grant, Cornwallis 
and his grenadiers arrested his further progress. He 
was under the eye of ^^''ashington, who apprehended 
that he and his uicn would be compelled to sur- 
render; but with the half of Smallwood's battalion 
he attacked Cornwallis, while the rest succeeded in 
crossing the creek. At this moment Washington 
wrung his hands in agvny, exclaiming: " Good God ! 
what brave troops I must this day lose." The en- 
counter which ensued was terrible. But, when on 
the point of repelling Cornwallis, he received rein- 
forcements ; and then the order was given that the 
remains of Lord Stirling's troops should force their 
way to the camp, and a party which attempted to 
intercept them received so hot a reception, that they 
were compelled to retire. A long and desperate 
struggle ensued ; but at length Lord Stirling was 
overpowered, and surrendered to De Heister. Two 
hundred and fifty brave men of Smallwood's regi- 
ment, perished in this deadly encounter; and the 
entire loss of the Americans in the battle was nearly 
two thousand, in killed, wounded, and captured. 
Within a short distance of the redoubts, the enemy's 
victorious forces were concentrated. It was supposed 
19 



218 THE LIFE AND TIMES 

that the works would be stormed, but the British 
general avoided the further effusion of blood ; and 
drawing ofi'his troops, encamped for the night. Had 
the works been stormed, a desperate defence by the 
Americans had been determined upon. 

The night after the battle was one of sadness and 
gloom to Washington and his army. The camp of 
an enemy, of great force and numerical strength, 
abounding in all the appliances of warfare, was seen 
at no great distance; and the sentries of the trium- 
phant foe approached the lines of the disheartened 
Americans. Skirmishes took place during the fol- 
lowing day ; but the main body remained in their 
tents till the afternoon, when they appeared to be 
throwing up works at live hundred yards' distance. 
A heavy fog which prevailed during the 29th covered 
their movements, and when it was at length removed 
by the breezes, it revealed the British shipping in the 
Bay of New York, opposite Staten Island. Great 
apprehension was then entertained in reference to the 
future operations of the British; and "Washington 
having called a council of war, it was resolved to 
cross the East River during the same night. An army 
of nine thousand men, with warlike stores, were to 
be drawn oft', under circumstances requiring the 
greatest secrecy and address. The least noise might 
arouse the foe ; and it was impossible to compute the 
dangers which would attend the transfer of the troops 
across a river three-fourths of a mile wide, w^hose 
tides were rapid and not unlikely to prove dangerous. 
All the craft that plied between Spyt den Duivel and 
Ilurl-gate, were ordered bv Washington to be im 



OF GEORGE WASHINGTON. 219 

pressed, and to be ready in the evening at the east 
side of the river. Colonel Hughes received the order 
at twelve o'clock; and with such diligence was it 
executed, that the vessels were all collected in the 
evening at eight o'clock, at Brooklyn. To conceal 
these proceedings from the enemy, and to obtain a 
simultaneous movement, a night attack was ordered; 
and the plan adopted was to post Mifflin and the 
Pennsylvania troops, with the remains of other gallant 
companies, as sentinels, till the rest of the troops 
could be embarked. The withdrawal of one regiment 
after another took place late in the evening. Wash- 
ington stood by, watching the embarkation ; and in 
his haste to depart, he sent an aide-de-camp, Colonel 
Scammel, to deliver a message, which being misun- 
derstood and erroneously given, might have defeated 
the movement. He told him to hasten the troops that 
were on their march ; but the Colonel, instead of re- 
porting this order, directed General Mifflin and his 
party of defence to hurry on, thus drawing off the 
very sentinels who were stationed to guard the em- 
barkation. Washington was surprised when he saw 
Mifflin approach, and after an explanation he returned 
to his post, remaining there till ordered to cross the 
ferry. 

While the fog still hung over Long Island, by 
. which the operations of the troops were involved in 
doubt and secrecy, the air was clear on the 'New York 
side, and everything favored the embarkation. The 
artillery, ammunition, and everything of importance 
were conveyed in safety to the other side ; and Wash- 
iiJi>-*-on was the last, or among the last, to cross the 



220 THE LIFE AND TIMES 

ri^'er. The Britisli were astonished at the celerity of 
the movement; and while the mist was clearing away 
the last boat had left the ferry. The plan, execution, 
and success of this retreat have been justly considered 
one of the most remarkable master-pieces in military 
history ; and as covering Washington with renown 
for prudence, capacity, and skill. He experienced 
so much anxiety in accomplishing this design, that 
for forty-eight hours he did not sleep a moment, and 
was during most of the time in the saddle. 

Long Island was now in possession of the British, 
and the continental troops were greatly discouraged. 
The situation of the Americans was indeed distress- 
ing. Both in numbers and in efficiency their troops 
were found to be deficient; and in a letter addressed 
to the Presidetit of Congress, Washington was com- 
pelled to admit his want of confidence in the fortitude 
of the majority of his soldiers. Lord Howe did not 
at that time press hostilities. He was sincerely de- 
sirous of peace, and sent General Sullivan to Con- 
gress with overtures; and although he was unable to 
treat with them as with a legally organized body, he 
was desirous of making some arrangement with the 
principal members of it. Congress agreed to send 
a committee to ascertain what authority he had to 
treat for peace with duly authorized persons, and 
to learn what were the proposals which he had to 
make. Accordingly, on the 6th of September, 1776, 
John Adams, Edward Rutledge, and Benjamin Frank- 
lin were appointed as a committee to wait on hia 
lordship ; but nothing of importance resulted from 
the interview which took place between them. 



OF GEORGE WASHINGTON. 221 



CHAPTER XXII. 

NEED OF A STANDING ARMY — NEW YORK EVACUATED BT THE AME 

RICANS — THE BRITISH IN NEW YORK SUCCESSFUL SKIRMISH, 

ASD ITS EFFECTS — THE ARMY PUT ON A NEW FOOTING BATTLE 

OF CHATTERTON's HILL — THE BRITISH TAKE FORT WASHINGTON 

INTELLIGENCE FROM THE NORTH FORT LEE ABANDONED — 

WASHINGTON AT HACKENSACK — GENERAL LEE's TARDINESS — THE 
MOVEMENTS OF WASHINGTON HE REACHES TRENTON — PROCLA- 
MATION OF LORD HOWE AND HIS BROTHER — WASHINGTON CROSSES 

THE DELAWARE PHILADELPHIA IN DANGER WASHINGTON'S 

APPEAL TO LEE — THE CAPTURE OF THAT GENERAL — WASHING- 
TON APPOINTED MILITARY DICTATOR. 

The gloom and depression which ensued after the 
retreat from Long Island, were so great as to place the 
American army in a very unpleasant predicament. 
The militia, instead of rallying to their country's 
standard, were eager as soon as possible to abandon 
the service, and return to their homes. Entire regi- 
ments began to desert in a mass, and this example 
produced on those who remained, and who were 
impatient of restraint, such a pernicious effect as to 
destroy the subordination so necessary in military 
affairs, and exhausted the patience and rendered 
nugatory all the efforts of the commander-in-chief. 
Washington therefore deemed a standing army during 
the war necessary to the defence of the liberties of the 
nation ; which could scarcely be defended without 
19* 



222 THE LIFE AND TIMES 

one. He was of opinion that the expenses attendant 
on such a regulation would be diminished, while the 
prevalent confusion and disorder would yield to a 
more rigid discipline. Washington was determined 
to do all that could be accomplished to serve the cause 
which he represented ; and no trials or disasters could 
depress his mind or diminish his energy. 

When the British general had gained possession 
of Long Island, his plans were soon developed ; and 
it was evident that he aimed at obtainino: the control 
of New York. The taking of it by storm would have 
the effect of injuring it, and it would therefore be 
rendered of less service to his troops. His purpose, 
therefore, was to avoid a bombardment, but to com- 
pass the town on the land side. But to accomplish 
this the American army must be surrounded ; and 
the evacuation of New York became, in consequence, 
the desire of its commander. The stores and luggage 
were partly removed beyond Kingsbridge ; and in a 
general council of officers it was unanimously agreed 
that, if bombarded, the city was untenable; and as 
this might take place at any time, some advised to 
destroy the city to keep the enemy from gaining any 
advantage by it; while others thought it should be 
held till the army was driven out. Two-thirds of the 
inhabitants of the city were Tories. It was at length 
resolved to make such a disposition of the troops, that 
any attack on the upper part of the island could be 
repelled, and in the meantime the rest should be pre- 
pared to retreat when the occasion required it. The 
sick, in number about one-fourth of the array, were 
to be sent to the Jersey side of the Hudson; and 



OF GEORGE WASHINGTON. 223 

while nine thousand men were to take their station 
at Mount Washington, Kingsbridge, and other places, 
iive thousand were to remain in the city, the rest to 
occupy the intervening space, and render assistance 
wheiever it was needed. - 

These arrangements were already progressing when 
Lord Howe met the committee from Congress on 
Staten Island; and when the object failed which he 
had in view, four ships anchored in the East River, 
and six others followed on the next day. Three men- 
of-war proceeded up the Hudson to Bloomingdale on 
the 15th of September, with the design of dividing 
the attention of the Americans ; while a powerful 
division of the army, comprising British and Hes- 
sians, commanded by General Clinton, was embarked 
on Long Island, and landed in the East River at 
Rip's Bay, protected by the fire of two forty-gun ships 
and three frigates. The Americans were driven from 
the batteries erected there, by the tiring from the 
ships. Washington was then at Harlem, but has- 
tened to the landing-place as soon as he heard the 
report of the guns ; and had the mortification to see 
troops which had been posted on the lines, flying be- 
fore the enemy, without firing a shot, though only 
about seventy of the enemy had appeared. He also 
saw two brigades which had been sent to their aid re- 
treating in all directions, in spite of the utmost etibrts 
of their ofiicers to rally them. Washington galloped 
up to the fugitives, and riding among them endea- 
vored to stop the retreat, but without eti'ect. The 
men still fled in terror; and so intensely was he ex- 
cited by such dastardly conduct, that he was unable 



224 THE LIFE AND TIMES 

to repress his rage, and dashing his hat on the ground, 
exclaimed : " Are these the soldiers with whom I am 
to defend America?" In his fury and despair he 
snapped his pistols at some, and drew his swqrd at 
others; but an aide-de-camp at length persuaded him 
to retire, as the enemy were but eighty yards distant. 
The self-possession and control for which Wash- 
ington was so remarkable, soon returned ; and as the 
enem}' might seize the heights of Harlem, which was 
the central position of the island, he sent off orders 
for securing that position at once, and ordered Putnam 
to repair thither from the city. In his retreat from 
New York Putnam suffered the loss of fifteen men 
killed, and three hundred taken prisoners; while al- 
most all the cannon, stores, baggage, and provisions, 
were left behind. The retreating division might 
have been cut off in the rear at Rip's Bay, had pur- 
suit been made in that direction ; but the Americans 
were not followed vigorously in their retreat. Gene- 
ral Washington drew all the colonial forces within 
line on Harlem Heights, and encamped there all 
night. Morris House, situated about a mile and a 
half from Mount Washington, became the head- 
quarters. The British general having, in the mean- 
time, taken possession of New York, encamped 
within a short distance of the American lines, his 
right wing resting on the East River, and his left on 
the Hudson. In the course of his inspection of cer- 
tain works of fortification and intrenchments at this 
time, Washington was on one occasion surprised at 
tlie skill and ability displayed in those which had 
been erected under the direction of a young ofiicer. 



OF GEORGE WASHINGTON. 225 

This person proved to be Alexander Hamilton ; and 
after having had some conversation with him, tlks 
general invited him to his marquee. This interview 
was the beginning of their long and celebrated inti- 
macy. Lieutenant-Colonel Hamilton, on the 16th, 
when defending an advanced post, was attacked by 
a large force of the enemy. He had advanced boldly 
toward the lines of the British, and General Howe 
sent two battalions and a regiment of Highlanders 
to check him ; and a battalion of Hessians, a com- 
pany of chasseurs, and two iield-pieces were likewise 
despatched afterward. "When they appeared, Wash- 
ington rode out to direct the engagement, and had 
not proceeded far before he heard the tiring between 
the British and Knowlton. The rangers brought 
back a report that the enemy's force was about three 
hundred men. Three companies of Weeder's Vir- 
ginia regiment were immediately sent to reinforce 
Knowlton, under the command of Major Leitch; who 
was ordered to gain their rear, while a feint was made 
to attack them in front. The party advanced, and 
the enemy rushed forward to fire from among some 
bushes. Knowlton attacked the other side, and ad- 
vancing with great spirit a brisk engagement ensued, 
in which Major Leitch, who had been the leader in 
the attack, was mortally wounded by the passage of 
three balls through his body. Colonel Knowlton also 
soon fell, and the other officers and men maintained 
the conflict with great bravery till aided by reinforce- 
ments; after which the enemy was charged with such 
vigor, that they were driven into the plain. On thia 
occasion General Washington experienced some dif- 

P 



226 THE LIFE AND TIMES 

ficulty in restraining the troops; which he did m 
order to avoid a general engagement, and also because 
a large reinforcement was then on the way from the 
camp of the enemy. In this action the British had 
fourteen men killed, and eight officers and seventy 
men wounded. The death of Colonel Knowlton was 
much lamented. He did not long survive the engage- 
ment, and his only inquiry amid his last agony was, 
whether he had driven in the enemy, and whether the 
honor of Connecticut had been maintained. He had 
the satisfaction of learning that his men had the ad- 
vantage in the conflict. Major Leitch expired on the 
1st of October; and his name was honored by being 
given as the watch-word the day after the battle. 

The events of this day produced an encouraging 
eflect on the American army. They had been dis- 
pirited with the discomfitures and disasters which had 
taken place since the enemy landed on Long Island ; 
but now the tide of triumph was reversed. They 
gained confidence in themselves and in their officers; 
and it was evident that the heroic courage, so nobly 
displayed in the affair at Lexington, and the battle of 
Bunker Hill, yet remained in the hearts of the patriots. 
More than three weeks elapsed, and the British army 
still remained inactive; and the lines on Harlem 
Heights bade defiance to their assaults. During thia 
interval Washington made Tigorous preparations fo. 
defence, and his lines extended from Harlem to the 
Hudson ; the Jersey side being commanded by Gene- 
ral Greene, whose head-quarters were at Fort Leer 
while Fort Independence, at Kingsbridge, was the post 
of General Heath. The king conferred the honor of 



OF GEORGE WASHINGTON. 227 

kniffhthooa on General Howe after the news of the 
battle of Lcng Island reached England. But his 
hopes of brin^nng the war to a speedy termination 
were not sanguine. He proposed an augmentation of 
the British forces by eight or ten line-of-battle-ships, 
and supernumerary seamen, as also by troops from 
Europe. Notwithstanding the remonstrances which 
were often made by the British generals, the actual 
number of European troops under arms fell far short 
of what was promised. This fact became a fruitful 
source of disappointment to British officers of every 
rank, and was the reason why Generals Howe and 
Clinton resigned their posts, long before their resig- 
nations were accepted by their superiors at home. 

A fire was seen on the 20th of September, which 
seemed to proceed from the city of New York, and cast 
a lurid glare against the sky during the night. Gene- 
ral Howe's aides-de-camp having arrived the next 
morning at the American camp to confer in reference 
to an exchange of prisoners, gave information that a 
great part of New York had been consumed, and that 
much more of it would have been burned, had not the 
British officers and men exerted themselves to pre- 
vent it. The conflagration was attributed to an Ame- 
rican, but on no satisfactory grounds. While the 
enemy were bringing troops and heavy cannon and 
ships against the American forces, the time for which 
most of the troops had enlisted was about expiring ; 
and their re-enlistment had not met with encourage- 
ment from Congress. A new dissolution of the army 
was expected, and the cause of liberty incurred great 
peril oi ruin, unless Congress soon adopted prompt 



228 THE LIFE AND TIMES 

and efficient measures to avert so great a calamity. 
On the 24th of September, 1776, Washington ad- 
dressed a letter to the President of Congress, por- 
traying the cares and anxieties which harassed him ; the 
inefficient state of the military system which existed ; 
and, after complaining of the insubordination, con- 
fusion, and discontent which it generated in the men, 
proceeded to state the only effectual means by which 
all these disadvantages could be remedied. To this 
letter is unquestionably due the great improvements 
in the army which were made, and the fortunate as- 
pect which affairs soon after assumed in the Ameri- 
can camp. The whole army was reorganized ; and, 
being put on a permanent footing, it was decreed that 
eighty-eight battalions should be furnished according 
to the respective ability of the several States. The 
men were to be enlisted during the war; and while 
the pay of the officers was increased, the men were 
to obtain a bounty of twenty dollars, a suit of clothes 
yearly during service, and one hundred acres of land. 
No bounty in land was to be received by those who 
served only three years. Officers obtained bounty at 
a higher rate. Arrangements were to be made with 
the commander-in-chief by the commissioners from 
the different States, in reference to the proportions of 
the States; and all vacancies were to be filled b}^ the 
general, in case the States were slow in making their 
own appointments. 

The President of Congress at this crisis addressed 
a circular letter to all the colonies, urging the imme- 
diate completion of their quotas ; and though the 
reorganization had removed a heavy burden from 



OF GEORGE WASHINGTON. 229 

the mind of "Washington, yet the evils that crept into 
the service were often a great source of vexation to 
him. Thus, for example, in order to collect troops 
quickly, some of the States offered larger bounties 
than Congress had proposed; and many State govern- 
ments raised it yet higher, and in var^'ing amounts; 
extraordinary rewards were promised the militia for 
service in emergencies; the States were lavish in incur- 
ring heavy debts, for which the Continental Congress 
was responsible ; and no power but that of Congress 
could control these evils. In addition to the duties 
of the chief command, Washington was compelled to 
organize a new army ; to meet the commissioners of 
different States ; to confer with them in reference to 
the appointment of officers, when the campaign was 
already in progress, the enemy superior in force and 
discipline, with all the anxieties and vicissitudes of 
the war pressing on him ; and yet the mind and 
energy of this extraordinary man were equal to all 
these exigencies. 

The plans of Sir "William Howe being now ma- 
tured, by which he hoped either to cut off" the Ame- 
ricans from communication with the countrj^ or bring 
on a general engagement, two ships, a frigate, and 
tenders, were sent up the Hudson, passed the batteries 
without injury, secured a free passage to the high- 
lands, and prevented supplies from being sent to tiie 
Americans by water. On the 12th of October, he 
embarked his troops on board the boats, sloops, and 
other craft, passed through Hurl-gate into the Sound, 
and landed at Throg's Point. Five thousand men, 
BriLiKh and Hessians, were left to cover ^ew York, 
20 



230 THE LIFE AND TIMES 

under Lord Percy, at Harlem. General Howe landed 
at Pell's Point; and having advanced to the high 
grounds between New Kochelle and East Chester, the 
second division of Hessians and a regiment of Wal- 
deckers recently arrived, joined him under General 
Knyphausen. The American commander was on the 
alert, and marshalled his army to meet the foe in four 
divisions, under Generals Lee, Heath, Sullivan, and 
Lincoln. Lee was stationed on Valentine's Hill, op- 
posite Kingsbridge; and the other divisions formed 
a chain of posts along the hills west of the Broux, 
from Lee's camp to White Plains. Washington was 
almost continually on horseback, in a broken, woody 
country forming posts and breastworks, and took 
his position so as to protect his army by means of 
the river Broux. They outflanked the enemy's lines, 
and covered the roads over which baggage had to be 
transported. Washington fixed his head-quarters at 
Valentine's Hill on the 21st, and removed to White 
Plains on the 23d, where he erected a fortified camp. 
It was placed on high ground, and two lines of almost 
parallel intrenchments defended it. The right wing 
rested on the Broux, the left on a small lake, by which 
it was well protected. If pushed by the enemy, 
Washington resolved to risk a general engagement at 
this place. Skirmishing had previously occurred ; 
and on the 28th of October, 1776, the British arm}' 
appeared, on the hills only two miles distant from the 
American camp.. About half a mile from the Ame- 
rican right flank stood a commanding height, called 
Chatterton's Hill, on which Washington had stationed 
a militia regiment. He now detached Colonel Hazlett, 



OF GEORGE WASHINGTON. 231 

with his Delaware regiment to their aid ; and soon 
after added the brigade of General McDougall, con- 
Risting of Smallvvood's Maryland troops, the New 
York troops, and two other regiments. These corps 
were so reduced by sickness as to amount only to 
sixteen hundred men. The enemy advanced in two 
columns ; Sir Henry Clinton commanded the right, 
and De Heister the left. There was also with tbem a 
troop of horse, which shone in all the glittering 
panoply of war, and made an imposing appearance. 
Colonel Rahl was ordered to cross the Bronx ; and 
General Leslie, with a largo force of British and Hes- 
sians, to advance in front, and endeavor to dislodge 
the Americans from Chatterton's Hill. The British 
commenced a furious cannonade, and under its cover 
Leslie hastened to construct a bridge over the Bronx. 
He was severely galled by two iield-pieces posted on 
Chatterton's Hill, under the skilful direction of Alex- 
ander Hamilton, the young officer of artillery. "When 
the bridge was finished, the British made an attempt 
to take Hamilton's field-pieces ; and three times they 
were discharged, ploughing through the enemy's 
columns. Rahl and the Hessian brigade having 
forded the Bronx, attempted to turn McDougall's right 
flank. The militia were of little service : he posted 
them very prudently behind a stone wall, and there 
they did some service until they observed some Bri- 
tish cavalry brandishing their sabres; after which, 
overcome with terror, they incontinently tied. Haz- 
lett and Smallwood made a valiant resistance at the 
top of the hir., and twice repulsed the British and 
Hessians, both, horse and foot. Being too closely con- 



232 THE LIFE AND TIMES 

fined, however, and inferior in number to their assail- 
ants, they retreated to a bridge over the Bronx. Here 
they fell in with General Putnam, who was hastening 
with Beall's brigade to their assistance. The loss in 
this action on both sides was about equal; that of the 
Americans was four hundred men, killed, wounded, 
and prisoners. 

The British now rested on the hill with theirleft wing, 
and with their right extended to the left of the Ameri- 
can lines, forming a semicircle, with the evident design 
of outflanking the latter. On the next day it was ex- 
pected that a deadly conflict would occur. The two 
armies laywithincannon-shotof each other. Washing- 
ton passed an anxious night, and busied himself in pla- 
cing his right wing on stronger ground. He doubled 
his intrenchments, and erected three redoubts. When 
Howe saw how strong these works were, he aban- 
doned the purpose of a battle, and had no hope of 
being able to dislodge the Americans. Washington re- 
mained a few days in camp, till be observed what course 
the British general would pursue ; for it appeared aa 
if he intended to withdraw his army toward the Hud- 
son and Kingsbridge. It soon became quite evident 
that his first purpose was to attack Fort Washington, 
and next to pass the Hudson and carry the war into 
New Jersey ; then, if possible, to advance to Phila- 
delphia. In order to oppose this plan, and as British 
vessels obstructed all other convenient places, Wash- 
ington ordered five thousand troops to cross atKing'a 
Ferry. The rest of the army was separated into tv, i- 
divisions; while General Heath was to defer>d *:hp 
passes of the highlands, General Lee, with four thoa* 



OF GEORGE WASHINGTON. 233 

aand men, was to remain at White Plains, or follow 
the general into New Jersey, as should be deemed 
most expedient after a full development was made of 
the enemy's plans. These orders being issued, Wash- 
ington proceeded to inspect the forts of the highlands, 
and met at Hackensack the troops that had crosseu 
the river, after a sixty miles' march in a circuitous 
direction ; for the Phoenix, Roebuck, and Tartar hav- 
ing anchored in the broad waters of Haverstraw Bay 
and the Tappaan Sea, the army was compelled to 
wind its way through the mountain passes secured by 
Lord Stirling. 

The British general now moved all his forces to the 
vicinity of Kingsbridge ; and when he appeared, the 
Americans retired to the lines near Fort Washington. 
The British crossed in boats, which had been procured 
from the East River during the preceding night, and 
by these means landed on New York Island. The 
fort was to be attacked at four difl'erent points. The 
commencement of the action was made known by a 
heavy cannonade and by volleys of musketry. Knyp- 
hausen advanced in two columns from the north; 
Colonel Rahl led the right, and General Howe com- 
manded the left. General Matthew crossed the Harlem 
River in flat-bottomed boats; Colonel Stirling, with 
the forty-second regiment, sailed down the Harlem 
River facing New York; while Lord Percy, with the 
Hessians, attacked the American intrenchments on 
the right flank. The fort was summoned to sur- 
render, but Colonel Mayan returned a defiant answer, 
and said that he would defend himself to the last 
extremity. The attack was begun on the 16th by 
20* 



284 THE LIFE AND TIMES 

General Xiiyphausen on the north, and by Lord Percy 
on the south, at the same time. Both parties landed 
at some distance from each other, and having crossed 
the Harlem River, forced their way up the steep 
ascent. The fort was defended during five hours 
with extraordinary^ bravery ; but at length Colonel 
Mayan was overpowered and compelled to surrender, 
and the whole garrison became prisoners of war. 
The Americans lost about fifty men killed during the 
attack. Two thousand eight hundred men, including 
ofiicers and privates, fell into the hands of the enemy. 
The only terms which thej^ could obtain, were, that 
the soldiers should retain the baggage, and the ofiicers 
should preserve their swords. 

Washington beheld this battle from the opposite 
side of the Hudson. At one time he entertained the 
hope that the fort would be able to hold out. When 
he saw his men cruelly bayoneted by the Hessians, 
he is said to have burst into tears. This defeat was 
a severe blow to the Americans, and a grievous mor- 
tification to the General. There were mismanagement 
and want of skill somewhere ; but with whom the 
fault lay is very uncertain. The fort not having 
proved efficient in preventing the vessels of the 
enemy from navigating the Hudson, had been left to 
General Greene to be defended or not, according to 
his discretion ; but no positive command had been 
given to abandon it. General Washington, in a letter 
written at this time, giving an account of the battle, 
expresses the depressing and gloomy forebodings 
which he entertained from the fact that in ten days 
more he would not hav*^. abqve two thousand men, of 



OF GEORGE WASHINGTON. 235 

the fixed established regiments, on this side the Hud- 
eon River, to oppose the entire British armament ; 
and very few more with which to secure the Eastern 
Colonies, and the important passes leading through 
the highlands to Albany, and to the country in the 
vicinity of the lakes. Having then alluded to the 
evils which, with a prophetic spirit, he foresaw would 
arise from short enlistments, he ends as follows : " I 
am wearied almost to death by the retrograde motion 
of things ; and I solemnly protest, that a pecuniary 
reward of twenty thousand pounds a year would not 
induce me to undergo what I do, and after all, per- 
haps, to lose my character; as it is impossible, under 
such a variety of distressing circumstances, to con- 
duct matters agreeably to public expectation." 

When posted at Peekskill, Washington had re- 
ceived intelligence from the Northern army on Lake 
Champlain, under General Gates, where he had made 
preparations for the defence of Ticonderoga. He 
completed a small flotilla, and gave the command to 
Arnold. In the meantime an armament was com- 
pleted by Carleton, who, by October, 1776, had 
assembled between twenty and thirty vessels ready 
for action. Arnold displayed great bravery in an en- 
gagement which was fought on the lake ; and during 
a whole day the contest continued with undiminished 
fury. The British squadron was then anchored as 
near as possible to the American, inasmuch as Car- 
leton hoped to capture them ; but during a cloudy 
night which ensued, Arnold slipped through the line 
of the enemy, without being perceived. When the 
wind lifted the fog in the morning, tlie British pur- 



236 THE LIFE AND TIMES 

Bued them with full sail, and the Americans stood 
for Crown Point. The Inflexihle, the Carleton, and 
the Maria, a schooner of fourteen guns, poured a 
tremendous fire upon them ; the Washington galley 
was captured, most of her crew being lost, and Gene- 
ral Waterbury and the rest were taken prisoners. To 
'revent the other vessels from being seized by the 
enemy, Arnold ran his gondolas on shore, set fire to 
them, and the men with their muskets kept the enemy 
at bay until they were burned. He now set ofl:' 
through the forests for Crown Point; escaped an 
Indian ambuscade ; and reached his destination in 
safety. Several sloops, schooners, and a gondola 
were in the place ; and Waterbury having arrived 
the next day on parole, with most of his men, they 
Bailed for Ticonderoga. The American loss in the 
action was eighty men, the British forty. Arnold 
reaped fresh renown from these achievements, on 
account of the skill and courage which he displayed. 
Carleton was joined at the ruins of Crown Point by 
his army, and then meditated an attack on Ticon- 
deroga, which General Gates prepared to defend with 
desperation. Carleton concluded that he could not 
capture a fortress of such strength with the force 
which he then commanded, and therefore returned 
to St. John's, and led his troops into winter quarters. 
The American troops would not, therefore, be re- 
quired to defend Ticonderoga, and many of them 
returned to Albany. Washington very reasonably 
hoped to be reinforced from their numbers. The 
British general now pursued the advantages he had 
gained, and detached six thousand men under Corn- 



or GEORGE WASHINGTON. 237 

wallis, who, landing on the Jersey side above Fort 
Lee, and having taken possession of the high grounds, 
continued his march between the Hackensack and 
the Hudson. As the entire body of troops com- 
manded by Washington was inferior in numbers to 
those under Cornwallis, he abandoned Fort Lee, and 
the garrison joined the main army at Hackensack. 
Washington was convinced that the intention of the 
enemy was to form a Hne of communication, and hem 
the garrison in between the two rivers. A great 
quantity of stores, baggage, and provisions was aban- 
doned; and in such haste was the retreat made, that 
the tents were left standing, and the enemy's troops 
occupied them during the same night. Nothing now 
remained but a general retreat; and an aide-de-camp, 
by the orders of Washington, wrote to General Lee, 
directing him to occupy with his troops the Hacken- 
sack side of the North River. 

The troops then at Hackensack numbered three 
thousand, were much dispirited, and without intrench- 
ing tools; and the country being flat, Washington 
resolved, rather than incur the risk of being shut in 
between two rivers, to abandon the fertile lands to 
the depredations of the enemy. He therefore ad- 
vanced on the west bank of the Passaic, not far from 
Newark. The • Jersey shore was exposed to the 
enemy's vessels from New York to Brunswick; and 
a march near the Raritan River was necessary to pre- 
vent General Howe from intercepting him on his ap- 
proach to Philadelphia. He now sent Colonel Reed 
to Burlington to Governor Livingston, and General 
Mifflin to Congress, then in session in Philadelphia, 



238 THE LIFE AND TIMES 

to obtain immediate aid ; inasmuch as the term of ser- 
vnce of Mercer's militia of ten thousand men was 
almost expired, and they would not be likely to leave 
their homes to endure the deprivations of a miserable 
campaign in that inclement season of the year, dis- 
heartened as they were by defeats, and by gloomy 
forebodings of the future. 

Washington afterward directed General Lee to 
cross the Hudson at once; and he then supposed him 
to be at Peekskill. Various other communications 
passed between them ; and the diminished forces of 
the Americans being in a perilous situation, Wash- 
ington again wrote to Lee in a pressing manner, and 
repeated his orders, informing him that the enemy 
had now passed the Passaic, and that probably Phila- 
delphia was their ultimate object. A council of war 
was now summoned, and several officers recom- 
mended that a movement should be made to Morris- 
town, where the troops of Lee's army could join 
them ; but the General was of opinion that he would 
make a stand at Brunswick on the Raritan, or dis- 
pute the passage of tiie Delaware. He therefore 
retreated ; and so closely was Cornwallis on his rear, 
that as he left Newark on the one side, the British 
troops entered it at the other. Washington wrote 
from Brunswick to Governor Livingston on the 29th, 
desiring him to remove to the western bank of the 
Delaware, and put under guard all boats on the river 
for seventy miles. The force assembled at Brunswick, 
united with the New Jersey militia, was not over four 
thousand men ; and no assistance had been obtained 
from the Legislature of New Jersey. The term of 



OF GEORGE WASHINGTON. 239- 

the Maryland and N'ew Jersey troops had expired, 
and they resolutely deserted the cause. Such great 
numbers of the Pennsylvania levies also departed, 
that they were intercepted at the ferries hy guards 
placed there for that purpose, and were even stopped 
on the public roads. 

Perfid}^ in the camp was now added to cowardice. 
A letter written by General Lee to Colonel Reed at 
this time, was brought to head-quarters ; and as 
Washington supposed that it referred to official busi- 
ness, he opened it and read as follows : " I received 
your most obliging, flattering letter; and lament with 
you that fatal indecision of mind, which in war is a 
much greater disqualification than stupidity, or even 
want of personal courage. Accident may put a deci- 
sive blunderer in the right; but eternal defeat and 
miscarriage must attend the man of the best parts, if 
cursed with indecision." The surprise of Washing- 
ton at detecting' such treachery on the part of one of 
his most eminent and trusted officers, may readily be 
imagined; but with that self-possession and coolness 
which so remarkably characterized him, he enclosed 
this letter to Colonel Reed, accompanying it with a 
note, stating by what accident he had happened to 
open it. Colonel Reed was greatly mortified at this 
incident; and though Washington consulted him 
subsequently on military affiiirs, he lost much of the 
confidence of the commander-in-chief, who afterward 
confined his communications with him to mere mat- 
ters of business. 

While Washington was waiting to no purpose at 
Brunswick, as late as the Ist of December, 1776, in 



240 THE LIFE AND TIMES 

hopes of being reinforced by General Lee, the British 
troops made their appeai'ance on the opposite side of 
the Raritan. "Washington retreated, after haviTig 
broken down the bridge over that stream; while 
Alexander Hamilton opened a spirited lire to check 
the attempts of the British to ford it. Two brigades, 
consisting of twelve hundred men, were left at Prince- 
ton under Lord Stirling and General Adam Stephens. 
The American army reached Trenton on the 2d of 
December, and their stores and baggage were re- 
moved across the Delaware. Washington expressed 
his fears in reference to the army to the President 
of Congress, and complained of want of exertion on 
the part of the gentlemen of the country, and of in- 
difference in the militia. While the most gloomy 
period of the war now intervened, and the whole 
eflective force of Washington was scarcely worthy of 
the name of an army, a joint proclamation was made 
by Lord Howe and the general, his brother, by which 
pardon was oftered in the name of the British mon- 
arch to all who should, within sixty days, take the 
oath of allegiance to him. Many persons of wealth 
and importance accepted the offer and took this oath, 
and the whole Confederacy was filled with despondency. 
But these things could not intimidate the resolute 
heart of Washington : he determined to persevere ; 
and asking General Mercer, who had shared his 
perils in the expeditions and adventures of his earlier 
days: " What is your opinion ; would the Pennsylva- 
nians help us if we should retreat to the back partd 
of Pennsylvania?" Mercer answered, that "if the 
lower counties gave up, the back counties would do 



OF GEORGE WASHINGTON. 241 

the same." Washington replied: "We must retire 
to Augusta County in Virginia. ISTumbers will repair 
to us for safety, and we will try a predatory war. If 
overpowered, we must cross the Alleghenies." Such 
was the unconquerable perseverance and intrepidity 
which Washington exhibited, at one of the darkest 
moments of the Revolution. 

The tardy Lee was still at Peekskill on the last day 
of November, and he promised soon to join Washing- 
ton with four thousand men. He expected no less 
than two thousand from General Heath ; and taking 
him aside he alluded to a former refusal of his to 
resign any of his troops, as being contrary to the 
orders of the commander-in-chief. Lee now asked 
for two thousand men, whom Heath could not spare ; 
and the latter declared that not a man should leave 
with his consent. Lee then affirmed that he would 
order them himself; to which Heath replied, that 
thai made a wide difterence, and that though General 
Lee was his superior officer, he had received positive 
orders from Washington on the subject. These he 
then showed to Lee, who replied that the commander 
was now at a distance, and did not know what to do 
as well as he. Having obtained the return book of 
the division, Lee selected two regiments to march 
with him on the next morning. In the end Heath 
induced Lee to give a written order, by which, at* 
senior officer, the troops were to be taken on his own 
responsibility. On the next day, however, Lee had 
altered his purpose, departed without the additional 
regiments, and crossed the Hudson o» the 4th of 
December. 

21* Q 



242 THE LIFE AND TIMES 

Washington, in the meantime, was posted at Tren- 
ton ; and reinforced by fifteen hundred militia from 
Pennsylvania, was ready to march to Princeton. He 
sent twelve hundred men to strengthen Lord Stirling, 
on the 5th, and with the remainder, followed on the 
next day. While on the march he received a commu- 
nication from General Greene, in which he stated 
that " Lee was at the heels of the enemy." Corn- 
wallis, in the meantime, being strongly reinforced, 
marched from Brunswick to within two miles of 
Princeton ; and Washington having heard of his 
movements, ordered all the troops and stores to be 
conveyed over the Delaware. He himself crossed on 
Sunday morning, and took up his quarters about a 
mile from the river; causing the fords to be protected, 
and all the boats to be destroyed, which before were 
collected together. The last of the troops had scarcely 
been transported, when Cornwallis came up, in ex- 
pectation of seizing the boats ; but not one was to be 
obtained on that side of the river for seventy miles. 
Washington had ordered them all to be removed to 
the right bank. Cornwallis, seeing he could not gain 
any advantage, led his main force back to Brunswick, 
intending to cross on the ice, and placed his German 
auxiliaries into cantonments. Washington again sent 
an appeal to General Lee : " Do come ; your arrival 
may be fortunate ; and, if it can be efiected without 
delay, it may be the means of preserving a city, whose 
loss must prove of the most fatal consequence to the 
cause of America." Philadelphia was now under 
the command of General Putnam, who, with the aid 
of General Mifflin, placed it in a state of defence 



OF GEOilGE WASHINGTON. 243 

On account of the impending danger, Congress, on 
the 12th of December, adjourned to Baltimore. It 
was understood that General Gates was advancing 
with seven regiments from the north; and these, with 
five thousand five hundred men which he then had, 
together with those under Lee, would enable Wash- 
ington to strike a blow at the enemy which he hoped 
would be decisive in its results. Lee had advanced 
as far as Morristown, when, in a letter of the 8th of 
December to a committee of Congress, he declared 
that he would immediately join the army of Wash- 
ington, but that he was assured that it was already 
very strong. Nevertheless, on the 12th of December, 
he advanced to Vealtown, where he posted General 
Sullivan ; while he took up his quarters at a tavern 
at Buskingridge, three miles distant from his troops. 
The enemy became acquainted with his situation by 
means of a Tory, who commuuicated the fact; and a 
party of light-horse, under Captain Harcourt, sur- 
rounded the house, and bore him off in triumph to 
their camp at Brunswick. General Sullivan then 
took the command, and hastened to join Washington. 
The loss of Lee was a heavy blow at that time to the 
interests of the patriots. Some doubted whether he 
had not purposely thrown himself in the enemy's 
way; but his subsequent treatment by the British 
disproved this suspicion. He was true to the Ame- 
rican cause, but he was such more from hatred of 
the British, than through attachment to the cause of 
liberty. He was a man of military reputation, but 
violent in temper, of boundless ambition ; and after 
the first year of the war, during which he had ren- 



244 THE LIFE AND TIMES 

dered important services, he became arrogant, pre- 
sumptuous, and impatient of control. 

Washington knew, at this crisis, the disposition of 
the people, and the resources of the Confederacy: he 
was well aware that the pressure of misfortunes would 
eventually be removed by perseverance; and that, as 
long as the Americans could keep an army in the 
field, England must carry on the war at an expense 
too enormous to be sustained even by the most opu- 
lent and lavish of nations. He therefore set himself 
about the renewed establishment of the army ; wrote 
to Congress in the most pressing manner, and with 
such effect that, from the very force of circumstances, 
that body looked no longer with jealousy on the 
strengthening of the army ; but confident in the ability 
and rectitude of "Washington, constituted him military 
dictator, with greatly enlarged powers, which were to 
continue during six months. By a decree they di- 
rected that, "until they should otherwise order, 
General Washington should be possessed of all power 
to order and direct all things relative to the depart- 
ment and operations of war." Beside those troops 
already voted, amounting to eighty-eight companies, 
he had power to raise sixteen battalions of infantry, 
three thousand light-horse, three regiments of artil- 
lery, and a corps of engineers, and to summon what 
aid he might deem necessary from the militia in any 
State; to form magazines of provisions; appoint all 
officers under brigadiers, or displace them ; to fill up 
the army; to take at a fair price, whatever provisions 
the army should need ; to confine those persons who 
would not receive the continental currency, and to 
imprison all disaflfected persons. 



or GEORGE WASHINGTON. 245 



CHAPTER XXIII. 

WASHINGTON REINFORCED — GATES REFUSES TO CO-OPERATE — PLAN Of 

ATTACK ON TRENTON PASSAGE OF THE DELAWARE — BATTLE 01 

TRENTON CAPTURE OF THE HESSIANS THE TROOPS RECEIVE A 

BOUNTY, AND REMAIN — GENERAL HOWE SURPRISED — BE SEND3 

CORNWALLIS TO NEW JERSEY CORNWALLIS AT THE ASSUNPINK 

HIS CONFIDENCE OF SUCCESS — MASTERLY MOVEMENTS OF WASHING- 
TON CORNWALLIS OUT-GENERALLED — BATTLE OF PRINCETON- 
DEATH OF GENERAL MERCER — EFFECTS OF THE BATTLE — INCREASING 
REPUTATION OF WASHINGTON IN CONSEQUENCE OF THESE VICTORIES. 

The troops recently commanded by General Lee 
wore conducted into the American camp on the 20th 
of December, 1776, by General Sullivan. They were 
in a very destitute condition. General Gates also ar- 
rived with four regiments from the north. The enemy 
had now relapsed into a state of confident apathy, 
and "Washington resolved to put in execution a skil- 
fully planned coup-de-main, against the apparently iu- 
vincihle British. The Hessians were posted along 
the Delaware, opposite the American lines. The 
forces of the latter now numbered nearly six thou- 
sand men. It was the intention of Washington to 
attack the Hessian posts by several simultaneous 
movements at different points. The Hessians had 
become the terror of the Jerseys; and the reduced 
condition of the Americans had induced them to re- 
lax their diligence. Three Hessian regiments undei 
21* 



246 THE LIFE AND TIMES 

Rahl, Lossing, and Knyphausen, were then stationed 
at Trenton. Rahl, ^A4lO had distinguished himself at 
White Plains and Fort Washington, commanded the 
post. He was a young man, very fond of music, light- 
hearted, and had taken but little pains with the torti- 
lications. Now therefore was the time to strike. The 
river was frozen ; and an intercepted letter informed 
Washington that General Howe purposed to cross 
over on the ice to Philadelphia. 

Washington directed Gates to proceed to Bristol, 
and take the command of that place. But he declined 
the trust on account of ill-health ; and though he 
wished to visit Philadelphia, Washington desired him 
to remain a few days at Bristol, and aid the counsels 
of Reed and Cadwallader. The secret was that he 
wished to obtain a separate command, and was going 
to Congress to make interest for this purpose. The 
25th of December was the time appointed for the 
purposed assault on the British, The troops, two 
thousand four hundred in number, with twenty pieces 
of artillery, under Washington, began to cross the 
Delaware nine miles above Trenton, at McKonkey's 
Ferry. It was supposed that the passage of the river 
would be eftected before twelve o'clock; but floating 
ice in the channel retarded the boats so effectually, 
that it was four o'clock in the morning before all had 
crossed, with the artillery, to the opposite bank. The 
passage was very dangerous on account of the ice; 
and Washington, who had accompanied the men, 
patiently waited on the eastern bank until the whole 
of the artillery was landed. Trenton was nine miles 
distant. It was not possible to reach it without die- 



OF GEORGE WASHINGTON. 2^^ 

ccvery, or to retreat ; and Washington therefore 
formed the troops into two divisions. Two roads at 
different points led to the town at nearly equal dis- 
tances; and a simultaneous attack was ordered to be 
made by both. The first division, led by Washing- 
ton, was to approach the north of Trenton by the 
Pennington road; Greene, Stirling, Mercer, and Ste- 
phen accompanied him in this direction. The other 
division, under Sullivan, took the road by the river, 
leading to the western end. The plan adopted was 
to force the outer guards, and then take possession of 
the town. 

The two divisions reached Trenton about the same 
time; and encountered no opposition, except from 
two pieces of artillery, which they captured. The 
Hessians were driven from the town, and endeavored 
t(^ retreat toward Princeton ; but they were inter- 
cepted, driven back, surrounded, and made priso- 
ners. Twenty-three ofiicers, eight hundred privates, 
and others afterward found in concealment, were 
compelled to surrender. The whole number of the 
enemy placed hors du combat, amounted to one thou- 
sand men. A thousand stand of arms, and six brass 
cannon, also fell into the possession of the victors. 
The killed were six officers and thirty men. Colonel 
Eahl, the commander, received a mortal wound, of 
which he expired soon afterward. Four or five hun- 
dred Hessians, and the British light-horse, escaped to 
Bordentown. The American loss was only two pri- 
vates killed; Captain William Washington, a cavalry 
otUcer, and Lieutenant Monroe, afterward President 
of the United States, wounded. Two mon were frozen 



248 THE LIFE AND TIMES 

to death — an event whicli was a suffiicent proof of the 
intensity of the cold. Heavy snow and hail fell dur- 
ing the march. So rapidly had the ice formed below 
Trenton, that it was impossible for the troops of Cad- 
wallader and Ewing to pass the river at the time 
appointed, in order to participate in the attack on 
Trenton; though Cadwallader succeeded in conduct- 
ing one battalion over. But such was the condition 
of the ice, that he failed to transport the artillery. 
Had Ewing crossed, according to the orders and in- 
tention of Washington, and taken the bridge at the 
southern extremity of Trenton, the party that escaped 
would have been captured ; and Cadwallader would 
probably have been equally successful with the de- 
tachment below, or would at least have driven them 
back so as to be taken by the victorious Americans. 

As this portion of his plans had not been carried 
out; as the enemy was strongly posted at Brunswick 
and Trenton ; and as his own troops were now much 
fatigued, General Washington wisely declined to pur- 
sue his victory any further; but again crossed the 
Delaware with his prisoners, and reached his camp. 
By this unexpected triumph the cantonments of the 
enemy on the Delaware were broken up, and the 
British and Hessian troops posted at Bordentown re- 
treated to Princeton. The troops being at length 
refreshed, Washington again crossed the river tc 
Trenton, with an intention of following up his advan- 
tage. The main army at Trenton received an aug- 
mentation of eighteen hundred Pennsylv£Enia militia, 
under General Cadwallader, and as many more under 
General Mifflin. 



OF GEORGE WASHIJNGTDN. 249 

The service of several regiments expired on the 
last day of the year, and the men seemed anxious to 
return to their homes, being wearied with the labors 
and perils of the campaign ; but the half of them, 
through the earnest persuasion of the commander, 
and a bounty of ten dollars, consented to remain six 
weeks longer. General Howe was patiently waiting 
until tlie Delaware should be frozen over, to conduct 
his troops to Philadelphia ; and the news of the cap- 
ture of the Hessians at Trenton having reached bim 
in his pleasant winter quarters in New York, he was 
astonished that veteran forces which made war their 
trade should be beaten by a raw and undisciplined 
militia. He retained Cornwallis when about to em- 
bark for. England ; sent him back to the Jerseys, and 
the broken cantonments of the British were collected 
in a body at Trenton. A party of Philadelphia light- 
horse captured twelve British dragoons, from whom it 
was ascertained that the forces of Cornwallis amounted 
to eight thousand men ; and news arrived soon after- 
ward of the landing of General Howe at Amboy, 
with one thousand troops. 

Washington was now in a critical position. Indi 
cations appeared which made an attack by the British 
probable ; and while his force was too small to en- 
counter the foe, a retreat would be discouraging. He 
therefore collected together the combined troops of 
Cadwallader and Mifflin, amounting to three thousand 
men, and placed the main body on the east of the 
Assunpink. The water was very deep; the bridge 
over it was commanded by the artillery placed on it ; 
and the advance-guard was stationed in a wood three 



250 THE LIFE AND TIMES 

miles distant, with Skabbakong Creek in front of 
them. On the 2d of January, 1777, General Greene 
skirmished with the advanced guard of Cornwallis; 
and it was nearly sunset when the British forces en- 
tered Trenton. The British commander formed his 
troops into columns, and attempted to cross the bridge 
over the Assunpink; but he was repulsed with a heavy 
loss by the artillery. Washington superintended the 
operations, stationed by the bridge, mounted on a white 
horse. Cornwallis now felt assured that he held the 
American troops and commander in his grasp : he 
gave his forces a night's rest, to render them the more 
efficient in the approaching service. The cannon- 
ading continued till dark ; and the two armies lay 
near each other, expecting on the morrow a decisive 
and bloody action. The danger to the Americans 
was imminent. A general engagement might be 
disastrous. A raw and inexperienced army was sepa- 
rated only by a shallow stream from a powerful and 
well-disciplined force. The Delaware, with its float- 
ing ice, lay behind ; and even a retreat across it, if 
such could be efiected, would leave Philadelphia in 
the power of the enemy, and depress the hopes of the 
Americans to desperation. 

The following night was one of the most anxious 
of the many harassing seasons passed by Washington 
during this naemorable war; but he possessed a mind 
fertile in expedients, and adequate to every emer- 
gency. Cornwallis had left but a small number of 
men behind him, and his baggage and stores were 
but weakly guarded at Bi'unswick. Very few of the 
enemy's force remained in Trenton. Would it not 



OF GEORGE WASHINGTON. 251 

be possible to surprise those posted at Trenton, and 
after capturing or destroying the stores, to proceed to 
Brunswick? Success in such a venture would aid 
the American cause ; and even in the event of the 
loss of Philadelphia, a blow struck in New Jersey 
would be advantageous. This scheme was approved 
by all the members of the council of war held in the 
evening; and there was but one opposing considera- 
tion. The mildness of the weather and the depth of 
the thaw, might render the miry roads impassable; 
but it so happened that a north wind dried them in 
several hours, when they became frost-bound. The 
baggage was then removed to Burlington, and the 
army prepared to eflect a rapid march. Trenches were 
dug near the British sentries during the night; men 
kept bustling about and making the usual rounds; 
the guards at the fords and the bridge were relieved; 
while the camp-fires burned with more than their 
ordinary eflulgence, and all seemed to denote the 
permanency and order of an encamped army. Those 
who were thus engaged were ordered to hasten after 
the troops in the morning. 

The American array withdrew from its encamp- 
ment at midnight. General Mercer led the van ; 
Washington brought up the rear, and passing by a 
circuitous route along the Quaker road, reached 
Princeton by daybreak. Three British regiments 
under Colonel Mawood were then in Princeton, and 
two of them were already commencing to march to 
reinforce Cornwallis in the morning. They were the 
seventeenth, fortieth, and forty-fifth regiments. Ma- 
wood was advancing with the seventeenth regiment, 



'Zoh THE LIFE AND TIMES 

wheti he saw Mercer's troops approaching along the 
Quakr).* road to secure the bridge. He imagined that 
they were fugitive Americans escaping from the pur< 
suit of Cornwallis; and wheeling about, sent orders 
to thf* other regiments at Princeton to surround 
them, and cut off their retreat. He soon became 
aware of his error. After a severe action the disor- 
dered British regiment fled ; or, according to other 
accounts, they broke through the American ranks. 
They made good their escape, however, by the Tren- 
ton road. The fiftj^-fifth regiment fought resolutely 
during a brief interval, and then retreated toward 
Brunswick : the fortieth also, which had been less 
engaged during the action, fell back to the same 
place. By this defeat the British lost one hundred 
killed, and three hundred prisoners. The Americans 
lost thirty men, and Colonels Hazlett, Potter, and 
others of subordinate rank; General Mercer was mor- 
tally wounded. That valiant officer was a Scotchman 
by birth, and had fought in the memorable battle of 
Culloden. He had served in the Old French War, 
and was an attached and devoted friend of the Ame- 
rican commander. During this battle Washington 
exposed himself to the hottest fire of the enemy, and 
continued to order and animate his troops, regardless 
of the most imminent personal danger. 

When Cornwallis discovered that the Americans 
had left their camp, the report of distant firing 
assured him that they were in Princeton. He enter- 
tained fears for Brunswick; retreated, and reached 
Princeton as the Americans left it. The two de- 
feated regiments were pursued by Washington as far 



OF GEORGE WASHINGTON. 253 

as Kingston ; and he ordered the bridge there to be 
destroyed to hinder the enemy's march. He arrived 
at Phickamin the same evening. The troops were 
now much fatigued, and had been thirty-eight hours 
without rest. As Cornwallis and his troops were 
advancing, he gave up his purposed attack on Bruns- 
wick, and remained at Phickamin long enough to 
refresh his troops. He then led them to Morristown, 
where he established his winter quarters. This situ- 
ation possessed the advantage of being in a moun- 
tainous district, in the heart of a fertile country ; and 
was both furnished with supplies, and difficult to be 
approached by the foe. 

Meanwhile, detachments of Americans assailed the 
troops of Howe with vigor, and harassed them so 
effectually that, except at Brunswick and at Amboy, 
the British and Hessian troops had entirely aban- 
doned the Jerseys. The recent triumph had effect- 
ually turned the scale of public opinion, and trans- 
formed a campaign which had been begun amid 
gloom and despondency, into one of victorious exul- 
tation and confident hope. The poor, ill-clad, ill- 
disciplined troops of the patriots had been conducted 
to victory under the most unfavorable circumstances, 
and had overcome a well-disciplined and veteran 
army. The British general, who imagined that ho 
had secured his enemy, had been outwitted ; and 
while the British forces were nearly driven from New 
Jersey, the prudent policy of Washington, which had 
been censured by many, was shown to be a principle 
of practical greatness and of profound wisdom, which 
triumphed by awaiting its time; while the talents of 
22 



254 THE LIFE AND TIMES 

the commander shone fortn in their force and splen- 
dor, demonstrating him to be fitted for every emer- 
gency. This campaign was the ordeal by which he 
was to be estimated ; and the American Fahius was 
the epithet applied to him by the generals and states- 
men of Europe, in consequence of the nature and 
success of the operations conducted by him in it. 



OF GEORGE WASHINGTON. 26fi 



CHAPTER XXiy. 

Washington's proclamation — correspondence ^-ith generai 
howe ill treatment of american prisoners — vfashing- 

TON's PERPLEXITY RESPECTING THE BRITISH FLEET LAFAYETTE'S 

FIRST MEETING WITH WASHINGTON MARCH OF THE AMERICAN 

ARMY THROUGH PHILADELPHIA THE BRITISH AT THE HEAD OF 

THE ELK WASHINGTON ON THE HEIGHTS AT CHADd's FORD 

BATTLE OP THE BRANDYWINE — ITS INCIDENTS — THE BRITISH IK 

PHILADELPHIA BOLD SCHEME OF WASHINGTON HE ATTACKS 

THE BRITISH AT GERMANTOWN BATTLE OF GERMANTOWN — ITS 

RESULTS. 

The American head-quarters at Morristown con- 
sisted of huts made in a very frail and temporary 
mauuer. Cantonments were placed in various places 
from Princeton to the highlands, and partial engage* 
ments took place occasionally between British forag- 
ing parties and the advanced troops, though neither 
army performed any action of importance during the 
ensuing six months. The hopes of those were bit- 
terly disappointed, who, after the proclamation of 
General Howe and his brother, had returned to their 
allegiance to the British monarch ; not only because 
the Hessian troops, in scouring the country, had 
plundered indifferently both friend and foe, and had 
committed outrages more appropriate to savages than 
to the troops of a civilized nation ; but on account of 
the victories of the Americans which had recently 



256 THE LIFE AND TIMES 

taken place, and had completely altered the general 
aspect of affairs. The patriots gained some advan- 
tages by the cruelty of the Hessians, in consequence 
of the indignation excited against them ; by which 
means many were now induced to take up arms, 
urged on by a spirit of revenge. Many substantial 
farmers and men of wealth entertained conscientious 
scruples in reference to the oaths they had taken ; 
but the matter was cut short by Washington, who 
issued a counter-proclamation, in which he stated 
that those who had formerly accepted British protec- 
tion should hasten to head-quarters, and take the 
oath of allegiance to the United Colonies. He gave 
permission, at the same time, to those who preferred 
the British jurisdiction to the interests of their coun- 
try, to betake themselves speedily within the British 
lines; and all who would not comply with these 
orders within thirty days, would be regarded and 
treated as the enemies of their country. 

There were some who thought this proceeding an 
undue exercise of power on the part of Washington, 
and a few members of Congress took the same view; 
but Washington was firm and determined in his atti- 
tude, and gave stringent instructions to his officers, 
in accordance with the spirit of the proclamation. 
One of the disadvantages under which he had labored, 
was the principle of innocent deception which he was 
compelled to practise, in exaggerating the number 
)f' his troops; and this was necessary, in order to 
conceal his real situation, the knowledge of which 
would often have been detrimental to the best inte- 
rests of the cause. This deception, -which often had 



OF GEORGE WASHINGTON. 257 

the tetivlency of keeping the enemy at a respectful 
dis^iince, was injurious in several respects in its influ- 
ence on the conduct of the different States; who in- 
ferre«l that there was less necessity for furnishing 
their respective quotas, and only thought of danger 
in th(. midst of a campaign. Washington now wrote 
to them in the most urgent terms, desiring them to 
recruit and fill up their regiments with promptness 
and euergy. He made appeals to every possible mO' 
tive of interest, patriotism, and pride, to accomplish 
this result, and that the supplies might be furnished ; 
while even the Congress was slow in these matters, 
except when directly incited by the commander-in- 
chief. To his urgent representation on the necessity 
of an increase of officers, five additional major-gene- 
rals and ten brigadiers were appointed. The selec- 
tions for promotion made by Congress were often 
influenced by local partialities ; and this cause had 
the disadvantage, that the influence of parties often 
bestowed honors on the less worthy, to the rejection 
of those whose claims, if less obtrusive, were more 
real and indisputable. 

A correspondence now took place between Wash- 
ington and General Howe, respecting an exchange 
of prisoners ; in which an agreement was made that 
officers, soldiers, and citizens should be exchanged ; 
the officers for officers of the same rank, and that 
Boldiers and citizens should be transferred, for each 
other, respectivel}'. The British general aftected to 
regard General Lee as a deserter, and under this vi(sw 
of the case he was rigorously confined. When Congress 
were informed, of this fact, and also that he was to be 
22* R 



'258 THE LIFE AND TIMES 

tried by a court-martial, they decided on retaliatory 
measures ; and decreed that such treatment as General 
Lee received should be extended to Colonel Camp- 
bell, and five of the Hessian officers who had been 
recently captured. Colonel Campbell was. accordingly 
confined in the common jail, and the Hessians, who 
were sent to Virginia, were deprived of the usual 
privileges accorded to prisoners of war. The impru- 
dence of this retaliatory course was seen, and it was 
disapproved of by Washington. Against it he used 
such arguments as were suggested by humanity and 
policy ; and observed, that as yet the number of 
prisoners of rank taken by the Americans was only 
fifty, while that captured by the British amounted to 
three hundred. Yet, the American prisoners taken 
at Fort Washington were treated with great cruelty, 
being closely confined in New York during the 
winter. A large number of them was crowded to- 
gether in prison -ships, in churches, and in other 
places ; and many perished from hunger, cold, and 
loathsome diseases. Others, who were sent in ex- 
change, were so enfeebled in health, that Washington 
refused to return for them an equal number of British 
or Hessians. Sir William Howe thought this con- 
duct violated the rules of exchange; and being unable 
to deny the facts of the case, declared that he had 
treated his prisoners as well as circumstances had 
allowed. 

The act of Congress respecting the captive officers 
did not produce any eflfect on Sir William Howe ; 
yet a want of humanity was never supposed to be a 
characteristic of that general. The sufiferings of the 



OF GEORGE WASHINGTON. 259 

prisoners in his power probably arose from inattention 
on his part, rather than from any other cause. He 
now addressed despatches to the British ministers in 
reference to the case of General Lee, who was still 
retained as a prisoner of war ; though it had been hia 
intention previously to send him for trial to England. 
Policy induced this change in his purpose; because 
the Hessian officers might meet with less desirable 
treatment from the Americans, and this would in 
turn produce a bad effect on the Hessian troops serv- 
ing in the war. 

The spring of 1777 had considerably advanced 
before any indications of the plan for the ensuing 
campaign were given by the British commander ; and 
such as they were, they seemed less extensive than 
were expected, in consequence of the lateness of the 
arrival, and the inferiority in the numbers, of his 
reinforcements. Howe sent two thousand men up 
the Sound under Governor Tryon, who, landing in 
Connecticut, advanced and took the town of Dan- 
bury, destroying the stores that were in it. The 
local militia, and a few continental troops, bravely 
opposed them, harassed them on their march, and 
followed them in pursuit to their boats. These move- 
ments were made under Generals Sullivan, Arnold, 
and Wooster. Before the British regained their 
shipping, they lost three hundred men. Generals 
"Wooster and Arnold were wounded; the former 
mortally. General Washington assembled the East- 
ern troops at Peekskill, while those enlisted in the 
new army from Virginia and the Middle States, were 
collected at head-quarters. Twenty-four thousand 



m60 the life and times 

mnskets, lately received from France, proved a valu- 
able acquisition at this time, as the want of arms had 
already been severeh' felt. 

Meantime General Howe, with an augmented force, 
began the erection of a bridge at Brunswick. It was 
constructed in such a manner as to be capable of 
beinof laid on flat-bottomed boats. His intention was 
supposed to be to cross the Delaware on it, and ad- 
vance to Philadelphia. At the end of May, Wash- 
ington took up his position at Middlebrook, nine 
miles from Brunswick, and prepared to prevent the 
enemy from crossing the Delaware. Sir William 
Howe led the British army fi^om Brunswick, on the 
13th of June, and took up a strong position, secured 
by the Earitan in front, fortified on the right at 
Brunswick, and on the left by the Millstone. He 
made this arrangement to provoke a general action ; 
but Washington would not risk it, or be allured from 
his prudent reserve. Howe then returned with his 
entire army to Brunswick, and soon departed for 
Amboy. Three regiments under Greene pursued 
him to Piscataway, and Washington advanced against 
the enemy to Qnibbletown. Being thus drawn from 
his strong post, Howe attempted to turn the American 
left, and with this intention made a sudden march to 
Westfield. Washington defeated this movement by 
marching again to Middlebrook, and skirmishes be- 
tween the two armies were all that took place. 

Sir William Howe being thus foiled in drawing on 
a general engagement, abandoned the Jerseys, and 
passed over to Staten Island on the bridge he had 
constructed at Brunswick. News of the approach of 



OF GEORGE WASHINGTON. 261 

Burgoyno to Ticonderoga with a large force now 
reached Washington; and he had been informed 
that preparations to the same effect were being made 
in the harbor of New York. He was in great per- 
plexity in reference to the destination of this fleet, 
which he thought, in the first instance, was Phila- 
delphia. But afterward it seemed as if Burgoyne 
and Howe were meditating an attack in concert; and 
he entertained no doubt that, as the possession of the 
Hudson, and of the highway to the Canadas, was so 
important to the British, for the purpose of cutting 
off the Eastern from the Western States, this was the 
object of Burgoyne's expedition. The immediate 
danger, however, was on the Hudson; and thither 
Washington despatched two regiments, intending to 
follow them to Peekskill, as soon as possible, with 
the whole army. When he ascertained the real 
intention of the enemy, he advanced to the highlands 
by Morristown and Rampo, and at Cleve sent Lord 
Stirling on to Peekskill with a division. Just at 
that time the fleet, having sailed down the Hook, 
stood out to sea, and Washington commenced at once 
to return. He recalled the two divisions which had 
crossed the Hudson under Sullivan and Stirling; and 
marching toward the Delaware, resolved to watch 
the enemy, who might return and ascend the Hudson. 
It soon became known that the fleet was at the Capes 
of the Delaware. The American army proceeded 
to Germantown, and the general went on to Chester. 
It was still uncertain what course Howe intended tc 
take, after the fleet had left the Capes. It was sup- 
p(jsed to be destined for the Hudson, or perhaps to 



262 THE LIFE AND TIMES 

co-operate with Burgoyne in an invasion of New 
Enirland. 

Washington now visited Philadelphia to confer 
with committees of Congress ; and there he met, for 
the first time, the Marquis Lafayette, a young French 
nobleman, who had left his country and espoused the 
American cause. This enthusiastic devotee of liberty, 
who sacrificed so much in the cause of America, and 
obtained such efitectual aid from his government in 
behalf of the cause of the patriots during the Revo- 
lution, first waited after his arrival on Mr. Lowell, the 
Chairman of the Committee for Foreign Affairs. So 
many foreigners had already requested employment 
from Congress, that Mr. Lowell, to whom Lafayette 
had presented a letter, gave him little encouragement. 
But when it became known that the young nobleman 
oft'ered both to serve at his own expense, and also as 
a volunteer, his tender was accepted : he was received, 
and promoted to the rank of major-general in the 
American army. The commander-in-chief was soon 
afterward expected to arrive in Philadelphia, and La- 
fayette thought he would dela}^, and have an inter- 
view with him previous to going to head-quarters. 
At a dinner-party, where several members of Con- 
gress were present, Lafayette first met Washington, 
who spoke to him in a complimentary manner, in- 
vited him to the camp, and wished him to consider 
himself as one of his own family. He could not ofter 
him the luxuries of a court or capital such as he had 
left; but, as he had become an American soldier, he 
would no doubt adapt himself to the usages and pri- 
vations of a republican army. Lafayette was pleased 



OF GEORGE WASHINGTON. 263 

witli the warmth of his reception ; his equipage and 
horses were at once sent to the camp, and he became 
one of the family of the general, with whom he ever 
afterward maintained the most faithful and affection- 
ate friendship. In a few days he accompanietl "Wash- 
,ington in his inspection of some defences on the 
Delaware. 

It was supposed that the British fleet had sailed to 
Charleston, as no information was received respect- 
ing it during ten daj's. Intelligence soon arrived, 
however, that it was in the Chesapeake, and had as- 
cended two hundred miles from its mouth. The 
design of Sir William Howe now became apparent. 
The American troops were therefore all recalled from 
New Jersey, and collected at Philadelphia. To en- 
courage the friends and dishearten the enemies of the 
patriot cause, Washington marched his whole army 
through the city. Indifferently dressed as they were, 
in order to make a more uniform appearance, they 
affixed sprigs of green to their hats. Washington, 
accompanied by Lafayette, rode at the head of his 
troops. The long column (vf the army, with its various 
brigades, divisions, pioneers, officers, the cavalrj' and 
the artillery, presented a formidable appearance to e^-es 
unused to scenes of martial splendor ; while the thrill- 
ing fife and drum aroused the slumbering echoes of 
the peaceful city. The troops continued their march 
to Wilmington. Washington established his head- 
quarters at the confluence of Christiana Creek and 
the Brandy wine. His army was encamped on the 
adjacent heights. The British had landed at a spot 
below the head of the Elk, now called Elkton. The 



5^64 THE LIFE AND TIMES 

pickets of the American troops advanced as far as 
Christiana bridge, while the main body lay at Red 
Clay Creek. In some skirmishing which ensued, the 
Americans had the advantage, and took about sixty 
prisoners. 

After the landing of his men and artillery, Sir 
William Hov^e attempted to outflank the American 
right. Washington therefore crossed the Brandy- 
wine, and took possession of the heights near Chadd's 
Ford. His right wing was so posted as to guard the 
fords above, and the left was two miles below. On 
the 11th of September, 1777, at daybreak, the British 
general divided his army into two columns. The first, 
under Knyphausen, advanced direct to Chadd's Ford; 
the other, under Cornwallis, with the general, ad- 
vanced on the Lancaster road. On the approach of 
Knyphausen a sharp contest took place between 
General Maxwell, who commanded the light troops, 
and the enemy; after which the columns of the latter 
passed on, and Maxwell was compelled to retire. 
Knyphausen made no attempt to cross the ford, but 
his artillery kept up a heavy fire, which was vigor- 
ously returned. Skirmishing continued to take place; 
and Knyphausen desired to keep the Americans em- 
ployed in front, until they should be attacked in the 
rear and right flank by Cornwallis. The crossings of 
the river had been guarded above Chadd's Ford for 
about seven miles ; and Washington, who suspected 
the real design of Cornwallis, now waited in anxiety 
for the patrols whom he had sent to watch the road to 
the fords. About noon he learned by a messenger 
from Sullivan, that a large body of the enemy had 



OF GEORGE -WASHINGTON. 265 

been seen on their march in the direction of the upper 
crossings. Other information was obtained, before 
the order was carried into effect for Sullivan to cross 
and engage that column, while Washington proceeded 
to attack Knyphausen in front. 

About two o'clock, however, it became evident 
that Cornwallis had made a compass of no less than 
seventeen miles, and had thus crossed two branches 
of the Brandjwine above the fork ; had reached Sul- 
livan's right iiank, or within two miles of it; and had 
obtained possession of the rising ground near Bir- 
mingham meeting-house. Sullivan, who had three 
divisions under him, Stephen's and Stirling's beside 
his own, now prepared for battle with all possible 
haste ; but too little time was allowed to form in 
complete array, before Cornwallis assailed him with 
full force; atid having broken the American line, 
thre y the rest into disorder and put them to the rout. 
Those who afterward rallied, and made a gallant resist- 
ance, were again put to flight by the greatly superior 
numbers of the enemy. Knyphausen now crossed the 
river, and attacked the American intrenchments at 
Chadd's Ford, where he was opposed by Col. Wayne, 
who fought with unusual bravery. But although he 
made a heroic stand at the head of his division, he 
was not able to cope with the overwhelming weight 
and impetus of an entire army. General Greene 
covered SulHvan's retreat, and having seized a pass a 
mile from Dilworth, he resisted the advance of the 
enemy as long as day lasted, and thus checked their 
pursuit. He had taken up a central position between 
Chadd's Ford and the place at which Sullivan was 
23 



266 THE LIFE AND TIMES 

engaged, so as to be able to render assistance in any 
direction that circumstances might require. The 
firing having ceased, and the British having become 
masters of the field, they remained on it; and the 
Americans kept up a disorderly retreat by different 
roads to Chester, where they arrived in the course of 
the night. 

As no regular returns vs^ere ever sent to Congress 
of this battle, it is difficult to say what was the loss 
sustained by the Americans. The British general 
reported the American loss at three hundred killed, 
six hundred wounded, and four hundred prisoners; 
and his own loss ninety killed, four hundred and 
eighty-eight wounded, and six missing. The British 
force in this battle was eighteen thousand men, and 
the American eleven thousand. The wound which 
Lafayette had received, confined him to his couch for 
two months. "Washington was obliged to fight this 
battle under many disadvantages. Knowing that 
Philadelphia must not be abandoned without a strug- 
gle, and being well aware of the expectations formed 
by the country and by Congress ; he felt certain that 
a defeat would be less injurious, than to permit the 
enemy to take Philadelphia without an encounter. 
Mistakes are likely to happen in every engagement ; 
and had there not been false information received by 
Washington, there can be little doubt that he would 
have struck a decisive and victorious blow, which 
would have given a different aspect to the state of 
affairs. He retreated to Philadelphia the day after 
the battle, and encamped near Germantown. 

The American Congress, so far from feeling de- 



OF GEORGE WASHINGTON. 267 

pressed by the loss on this occasion, resolved to 
increase the army as largely and as promptly as 
possible, and invested Washington with additional 
authority. Fifteen hundred troops were ordered from 
the Hudson, and the militia of Pennsylvania and 
other States were called out in all haste. Washing- 
ton was authorized to fill up the vacancies in the 
ami}', and to suspend any officer whose conduct 
would require it. He was empowered to take provi- 
sions for the army within seventy miles of head-quar- 
ters, and either to pay for the same, or to give certifi- 
cates. There were a good many of the disaffected in 
Philadelphia, who, in the event of the approach of an 
enemy to the city, would be ready to give the British 
control of their property. The General had authority, 
therefore, to remove such goods as might be useful to 
the enemy, or secure it for the owners. The enthu 
siasm of Washington and his troops was not damped 
by the result of the last battle ; and when the men 
were refreshed by the rest of a day, he crossed the 
Schuylkill, and by the Lancaster road approached the 
left of the enemy. The two armies met within twenty 
miles of the city, and a battle would then have been 
fought; but a heavy fall of rain came on, which sus- 
pended hostilities. 

Without being followed by the enemy, Washington 
proceeded to Yellow Springs, and- at Parker's Ford 
passed the Schuylkill, for the purpose of giving the 
enemy battle. But they had obtained the advance of 
liim ; and it was impossible to overtake them, in the 
present wearied condition of his troops. They would 
in all )robability be in Philadelphia on the same 



268 THE LIFE AND TIMES 

night. Ill the last partial engagement which oc. arrtd 
a few days before, Washington had advanced to give 
the enemy battle, as far as "Warren's tavern on the 
Lancaster road, but the rain again prevented ; and 
when the weather cleared, the Americans were so de- 
ficient in powder as not to have a round left. The 
forty rounds to a man which they had brought with 
them had been totally destroyed ; and now a position 
was necessary by which they could be defended until 
their arms could be placed in order, and ammuni- 
tion be procured. While this purpose Avas being 
accomplished, the enemy marched from their posi- 
tion near White Horse tavern to Swede's Ford; anJ 
the American general threw himself in their front, to 
oppose them either in the passage, or after they had 
crossed the river. 

Congress now removed to Lancaster, in Pennsyl- 
vania, and thence to the town of York. Cornwallis 
marched into Philadelphia and took possession of it 
on the 26th. He was followed by the whole body of 
British and Hessian grenadiers, and by all the best 
troops of his army. The long trains of artillery and 
light dragoons, with martial music and glittering 
arms, made an imposing appearance; and formed a 
striking and painful contrast to the patriot army, which 
had passed through the city a short time before. 

After the occupation of the city by the British, 
Lord Howe left the Chesapeake, intending to take 
the strong defences of ihe Delaware, and proceed to 
Philadelphia. To assist in this movement, a detach- 
ment of British troops was stationed in New .Tersey, 
the main body was posted in Germantown, then a 



OF GEORGE WASHINGTON. 269 

Village consisting of one street; while the remainder 
of the troops held possession of Philadelphia. Wash- 
ington now conceived the bold design of attacking 
the British by surprise. The Skippack or main road, 
was nearly parallel to the Monatawny or Eidge road, 
on its right. The largest portion of the British troops 
was almost equally divided by the Skippack. Their 
right-wing was commanded by General Grant, and 
lay to the east of this road ; the left wing extended 
to the west; while the head-quarters of General Howe 
were in the rear. Strong detachments with cavalry 
covered and defended the several wings. The second 
battalion of British light-infantry, with, a train of 
artillery, was stationed two miles from the main body 
on the west of the road, and formed the advance. It 
had an outlying picket, and two six-pounders were 
posted at Allen's house on Mount Airy. Chew's 
house, which stood beyond the village, and was about 
a hundred yards east of the road, was then the coun- 
trj'-seat of the Chief Justice of Pennsylvania. It was 
a large substantial stone edifice, with ornamented 
grounds around it. About three-quarters of a mile 
iu the rear of the light-infantry, lay the fortieth regi- 
ment of infantry under Colonel Musgrave. 

The American army had been weakened by a de- 
tachment having been sent to New Jersey, to attack 
the fortifications at Billingsport. The time, never- 
theless, wao propitious. General Sullivan, with the 
right wing, composed of his own division and that of 
General "Wayne, and sustained by a body of North 
Carolina reserve under Lord Stirling, and Maxwell's 
Virginia brigades, flanked by the brigade of Geneial 
23* 



270 THE LIFE AND TIMES 

Conway, was ordered to march down the Skippack 
road, and attack the enemy's left wing. The Penti- 
sylvania militia, under General Armstrong, was di- 
rected to pass along the Eidge Road, and attack the 
left and rear of the enemy. The left wing of the 
Americans, made up of Greene's and Stephen's divi- 
sions, flanked by McDougall's brigade, commanded 
by General Greene, were to enter the village at the 
market-house. The two divisions were to attack the 
right wing of the enemy in front. Smallwood's divi- 
sion, made up of Maryland militia, and Forman'a 
Jersey brigade, were to march around the Old York 
road, and fall upon them in the rear. Thus two-thirds 
of the troops were to assail the right of the enemy, 
with the purpose of forcing it. If this should be 
accomplished, the enemy would be pushed into the 
Schuylkill, or be compelled to capitulate. The plan 
was skilfully laid, and took the enemy by surprise. 

On the third of October, 1777, the American army 
left Matuchen Hills by four routes, it being expected 
that all would arrive at the scene of action in time. 
The right wing, accompanied by Washington, reached 
Chestnut Hill at break of day ; and a detachment 
from it attacked Allen's house, and killed two sen- 
tries. But the roll of a drum gave the alarm ; and 
the picket-guard, after discharging the six-pounders, 
fled to the light-infantry battalion, which was now 
preparing for battle. The sun rose in obscurity ; the 
routed British light-infantry, supported by grenadiers, 
soon rallied ; and Sullivan's division and Conway's 
brigade joined in the attack. The British infantry 
fought bravely, then took to flight, and abandoned 
their artillery. General Wayne pursued them; and 



OF GEORGE WASHINGTON. 271 

his men inflicted fearful retribution on the t^e with 
their bayonets, for their fallen comrades of the 20th 
of September. The fog, however, was so dense that, 
with the smoke of musketry and cannon, the Ameri- 
cans frequently exchanged shots with, each other by 
mistake. The enemy were driven from their encamp- 
ment, and abandoned their tents and baggage ; and 
while the main body rushed in a disorderly retreat 
through the village, with Wayne in hot pursuit, Mus- 
grave and six companies of the fortieth regiment of 
the British took possession of Chew's house, barri 
caded the doors and lower windows, and thus con- 
verted it into a post of defence. The British were 
then summoned to surrender, without effect; and a 
flag accompanying the bearer of tbe demand was 
tired on. During the action which ensued many of 
the assailants, and few of the defenders, were slain ; 
but in consequence of this delay of half an hour, the 
divisions and brigades, which had been separated by 
the skirmishing around Chew's house, could not 
again be united to the main body. A regiment was 
left to check the garrison, while the rear division 
again pressed onward. The heavy fog still rendered 
objects dim at thirty yards' distance. Washington 
could not, therefore, take any observation, nor obtain 
any information in reference to what was passing. 
His original plan of operations was only partially 
carried out; and with efl:ect merely in the centre. 

Sullivan, at a mile distant from Chew's house, 
being reinforced by the North Carolina troops, and 
by General Conway's brigade, advanced against the 
enemy's left, which yielded to his onset. The left 
wing under Greene, came late into the action ; and 



272 THE LIFE AND TIMES 

ne divisions of Greene and Stephen were separated, 
that of the latter being detained bj receiving and 
returning a heavy lire from Chew's house. General 
Greene pressed on ; drove a light-infantrj regiment 
before him; took some prisoners, and reached the 
centre of the village, v'here he found the British right 
at the market-house, drawn up to resist him. The 
enemy, however, gave way, Forman and Smallwood 
now appeared on the right flank ; and the American 
troops seemed on the point of taking the whole force 
of the enemy. But a mysterious panic seized the 
troops at that moment. Washington, in a letter to 
his brother, says: "If it had not been for a thick fog, 
which rendered it so dark at times that we were not 
able to distinguish friend from foe at the distance of 
thirty yards, we should, I believe, have made a deci- 
sive and glorious day of it. But Providence designed 
otherwise ; for after we had driven the enemy a mile 
or two, and after they were in the utmost confusion, 
and flying before us in most places ; after we were 
upon the point, as it appeared to everybody, of grasp- 
ing a complete victory, our own troops fled with pre- 
cipitation and disorder. How to account for this I 
know not; unless, as I before observed, the fog repre- 
sented their own friends to them for a reinforcement 
of the enemy, as we attacked in diiferent quarters at 
the same time, and were about closing the wings of 
our army when this happened." 

The enemy having recovered from their surprise, 
and the left wing being brought up by General Grey, 
pressed the Americans as they retreated. Cornwallis 
then joined the pursuit with a squadron of light-horse 
from Philadelphia. The Americans withdrew in good 



OP GEORGE WASHINGTON. 273 

order, caraying oif all their cannon and wounded. 
General Greene kept up a fighting retreat for several 
miles ; General Wajme turned his cannon frequently 
on the enemy, and brought his troops to a stand near 
White Marsh. 

The loss of the British in this battle was seventy- 
one killed, four hundred and fifteen wounded, and 
fifteen missing. The American loss was one hundred 
and fifty killed, five hundred and twenty-one wounded, 
and about four hundred taken prisoners. During the 
engagement Washington exhibited the coolest cou- 
rage, exposing himself to the hottest fire of the enemy 
in the most daring manner. Though the Americans 
lost the victory in this conflict, it is said that the im- 
pression which this bold attempt produced on the 
British, was greater than that of any event which 
transpired in the war since the battles of Lexington 
and Bunker Hill. The struggle had an eflect even 
in France ; procured a compliment for General Wash- 
ington from the Count de Vergennes ; and exerted 
DO small influence in obtaining the valuable assist- 
ance rendered ultimately by France to the United 
States. This battle had also the effect of raising the 
spirits of the army, and of animating the hopes of 
the nation ; inspiring the people with confidence in 
the valor of the troops, and in the ability of their 
commander. The British forces afterward compelled 
the Americans to evacuate all the fortified posts on 
the Delaware. The brave defence of Fort Mifflin and 
Red Bank on that river, continued for six weeks; was 
followed by the evacuation of these places; and the 
British fleet then sailed in triumph to Philadelphia. 

s 



274 THB LIFE AND TIMES 



CHAPTER XXV. 

IHE AMERICAN CAMP AT WHITE MARSH — WINTER ENCAMPMENT Al 

VALLEY FORGE SPURIOUS LETTERS ORIGIN, DEVELOPMENT, AND 

CONCLUSION OF THE CONWAY CABAL THE LOYALTY OF LAFAYETTE — 

THE MAGNANIMITY OF WASHINGTON RELIANCE OF THE GENERAL ON 

THE GOD OF ARMIES AN AFFECTING INCIDENT. 

After the battle of Germantown Washington 
established himself in a strong position at White 
Marsh; and dispatched General Greene with a body 
of troops to oppose Cornwallis, who was attempting 
to reduce Fort Mercer, at Red Bank. In a skirmish 
which took place at Gloucester Point, Lafayette highly 
distinguished himself. Greene joined the army at 
White Marsh, as the enemy had crossed over to the 
city. The surrender of Burgoyne, which had taken 
place in the meanwhile, had allowed reinforcements 
to be sent from the Northern army ; and Morgan's 
riflemen, with some of the New Hampshire troops, 
joined Washington's camp. Sir William Howe ad- 
vanced as far as Chestnut Hill on the 4th of Decem- 
ber, 1777, within three miles of the American camp. 
His force consisted of twelve thousand men ; and as 
he had been lately reinforced, he deemed this a pro- 
pitious time to try the hazard of a battle. He thought 
that the American general would afford him some 
advantage for an attack ; but Washington persisted 



OF GEORGE WASHINGTON. 275 

in waiting for him to commence operations, and he 
retired at last to Philadelphia, having lost in skir- 
mishing sixty-three men wounded, twenty killed, and 
twenty-three missing. 

It now began to grow cold, and the increased rigor 
of the season rendered it necessary for the Americana 
to enter winter quarters. The men were not only 
poorly provided with clothes and shoes, but in many 
instances were destitute of provisions and forage; 
arising from the fact that many persons refused to 
sell provisions to the Americans, either through fear 
of the enemy, through disaffection, or from their want 
of confidence in the certificates issued by Congress. 
It grieved Washington to be obliged to exercise the 
authority vested in him, not only becaii'^e he re- 
spected the cultivators of the soil, but also because 
he knew it to be bad policy to alarm the inhabitants 
of a peaceful country ; as well as on account of the 
demoralizing influence which such a course would 
produce upon the army. In a letter addressed to the 
President of Congress he alluded to his embarrassed 
position, and his knowledge of the jealousy which 
existed against the exercise of military power. He 
promises that no exertions will be wanting on his 
part to provide his own troops with supplies, and at 
the same time to keep them from being used by the 
enemy ; and that it was his wish that the different 
States, of their own accord, might see the importance 
of maintaining the troops and furnishing supplies. 

In a council of war which was summoned, each 
member set forth his opinion in writing; and there 
were widely diflering views taken by the ofiicers as 



276 THE LIFE ANIi TIMES 

to the best method of disposing the army during the 
ensuing winter. The general therefore determined 
to act upon his own judgment, and to construct a 
fortified encampment. The spot selected for this 
purpose was Valley Forge, about twenty miles distant 
from Philadelphia. The place lay between ridges of 
hills and the Schuylkill, the ground being woody. 
Washington examined it himself, and his practised 
eye designated the localities appropriate to each divi- 
sion of the army. On the 18th of December the troops 
were marched thither, and preparations were made 
for their accommodation. The place which was then 
selected they retained till the succeeding June. In- 
trenchments on the land side surrounded the entire 
encampment; and its communication with the coun- 
try beyond the river was effected by a bridge con- 
structed across it. The main body of the army was 
ordered to remain there ; but a detachment was sent 
to Wilmington to protect Delaware from the hostile 
incursions of the enemy. 

This encampment presented a curious aspect, but 
was exceedingly simple. Huts, each sixteen feet by 
fourteen, were erected of timber, which was squared, 
the logs being laid one on the other. The huts were 
placed in parallel lines, and presented the appearance 
of a town in some places, in which the troops from 
one State occupied one street or avenue, and those 
from a different State another. A general officer 
occupied a hut exclusively ; and in proportion to their 
rank, a number of officers had one hut. One of these 
structures was allowed to twelve privates. Although 
Washington was now denying himself the pleasures 



OF SEORGE WASHINGTON. 277 

of a temporary retirement from his harassing duties ; 
while from his zeal for the public good, he undertook 
to lead the armies of his country, and fight her bat- 
tles ; a plan was laid by his open and secret enemies 
to blast his influence and destroy' his character. The 
first attempt of this kind was made by means of cer- 
tain spurious letters, said to have been written by 
General Washington, in the summer of 1776, to Mrs. 
Washington, Mr. Custis, and Lund Washington, his 
steward. It was asserted that, on the evacuation of 
Fort Lee, "Billy," a servant of Washington, was left 
behind in ill health ; and that he gave a portmanteau 
belonging to his master into the keeping of an 
ofiicer, who found these letters in it, and sent them 
to England, where they were published. They were 
reprinted in New York, and distributed largely in 
handbills; and one of them, published on the 14th of 
February, appeared in extracts in a Philadelphia 
paper. Except to his friends in private, Washington 
took no notice of these letters at the time ; but he 
afterward, in a letter to the Secretary of State, de- 
clared they were false and fabricated. Their design 
and execution were remarkably ingenious, and they 
mingled truth with falsehood so adroitly as to give 
them an air of genuineness to those unacquainted 
with Washington's character. But, whatever eft'ect 
they may have produced in England, they could do 
him no injury with Americans, who knew him too 
well to believe him capable of writing them. In 
fact, the letters carried with them their own refu- 
tation ; for they insinuated that Washington was 
secretly opposed to independence, and to the sepa- 
24 



2'78 THE LIFE AND TIMES 

ration of the colonies from Great Britain. The real 
author of these letters was never discovered ; and the 
servant of Washington referred to had never been at 
Fort Lee ; but the individual who wrote them, with 
so much skill, it is supposed extracted portions of 
genuine letters of Washington which had been inter- 
cepted, and mixed them with his own composition. 
While the design of the author was self-evident, 
Washington truly remarked : "It is no easy matter 
to decide whether the villany or the artifice of these 
letters is the greatest." The individual who became 
most prominently identified with this disgraceful 
aflair, and who obtained the unenviable notoriety of 
having it pass under his name, was General Conway; 
and the cabal in question is now known, and has be- 
come historical, by the name of " Conway's cabal." 
Beside General Conway, who was an Irishman by 
birth, had been in the French service, and prided 
himself on his thirty years' experience, Generals Gates 
and Mifflin were also implicated in the conspiracy, 
as well as several members of Congress. 

When General Gates obtained his victory over 
Burgoyne, he had not the civility to inform the 
commander-in-chief of that event; and this mark of 
disrespect to the general whom they had chosen to 
conduct their armies, was passed over without cen- 
sure by Congress. This circumstance aflbrds a proof 
that the cabal had some influence among its members. 
Another evidence of this fact was the institution of a 
new Board of War, of which General Gates M^as 
president, and Conway and Mifflin members. This 
board was invested with extensive powers; many of 



OF Q.EOKGE WASHINGTON. 279 

its most important functions were not only indepen- 
dent of Washington, but appointed with tlie evident 
purpose of sapping tiie foundations of his authority, 
and securing bis downfall. Gates and Mifflin had 
both been professed friends of Washington ; and 
through him the former had, in a great degree, ob- 
tained his appointment. At the organization of the 
first continental army, Gates had desired the com- 
mand of a brigade, and Mifflin that of a regiment. 
Both were refused, because their offices required 
their whole time, which they were reluctant to give to 
the service. Cambridge was the spot where the first 
signs of their discontent began to be manifest. At 
that period Gates was adjutant-general, with the rank 
of brigadier ; Mifflin was aide-de-camp to the general, 
who appointed him quartermaster-general, with the 
rank of colonel. When the army left Cambridge, 
Gates employed all his influence, but in vain, to 
obtain a separate and independent command. 

Conwa}' eventually obtained his just reward. In a 
duel fought subsequently with an American officer, 
he was wounded, and as he supposed mortally. He 
then wrote to General Washington as follows : " My 
career will soon be over; therefore justice and truth 
prompt me to declare my last sentiments. You are, 
in my eyes, the great and good man. May you long 
enjoy the love, veneration, and esteem of these 
States, whose liberties you have asserted by your 
virtues." He recovered of his wound, however, and 
then went to France, leaving an unenviable reputa- 
tion behind him. An aft'ecting incident is related of 
Washington at this gloomy period, which shows Ma 



280 THE LIFE AND TIMES 

pious trust in the Supreme Being. Though often 
narrated, it deserves again to be repeated. "Isaac 
Potts, at whose house Washington was quartered, 
relates that one day, while the Americans were en- 
camped at Valley Forge, he strolled up the creek; 
when not far from his dam he heard a solemn voice. 
He walked quietly in the direction of it, and saw 
Washington's horse tied to a sapling. In a thicket 
near by was the beloved chief upon his knees in 
prayer, his cheeks suffused with tears. Like Moses 
at the bush, Isaac felt that he was upon holy ground, 
and withdrew unobserved. He was much agitated, 
and on entering the room where his wife was, he burst 
into tears. On her inquiring the cause, he informed 
her of what he had seen, and added : ' If there is any 
one on this earth whom the Lord will listen to, it ia 
George Washington ; and I feel a presentiment thai 
under such a commander there can be no doubt oi 
our eventually establishing our independence, an4 
that God in his providence has willed it so.' " 



OF QEORGE WaSHINGTOK. 281 



CHAPTER XXVI. 

•rPFERINGS OF THE ARMY AT VALLEY FORGE — BARON STEUBEW — • 

TREATY WITH FRANCE "CONCILIATORY BILLS " OF LORD NORTH 

SIR WILLIAM HOWE SUCCEEDED BY SIR HENRY CLINTON — 

PEACE COMMISSIONERS — THEIR RECEPTION AND DEPARTURE 

THE BRITISH EVACUATE PHILADELPHIA — THEIR MARCH THROUGH 
THE JERSEYS BATTLE OF MONMOUTH CONDUCT AND COURT- 
MARTIAL OF GENERAL LEE — ARRIVAL OF THE COUNT d'ESTAINQ 

OPERATIONS OF THE ALLIES AGAINST NEWPORT — ITS FAILURE, 

AND THE RESULT — CAMPAIGN OF 1779 — THE MASSACRE OF WYO- 
MING AVENGED — ARRIVAL OF THE FRENCH FLEET UNDER DB 
TERNAY, AND ARMY UNDER COUNT DE ROCHAMBEAU. 

The American army suffered severely during the 
winter spent at Valley Forge. The march to that 
place was attended with much difficulty to the sol- 
diers, many of whom marked the frozen ground with 
the blood of their lacerated feet. Clothing was ill 
provided; and when it was announced that a foraging 
party of the British were about to ravage the country, 
and several regiments were ordered to b« ready to 
attack them, it was found that they had no provi- 
sions, and a dangerous mutiny was on tb« point of 
breaking out. To remedy this evil, parties were sent 
out to collect provisions, and orders were given to 
procure them wherever they could be obtained, to 
supply the pressing wants of the army. The same 
exigency existed several times during the winter ; 
24* 



282 THE LIFE AND TIMES 

and Washington had occasion to observe that, "for 
some days there has been little less than a famine in 
the camp. A part of the army have been a week 
without any kind of flesh, and the rest three or four 
days. Naked and starving as they are, we cannot 
enough admire the incomparable patience and fidelity 
of the soldiery, that they have not been, ere this, ex- 
cited by their sufferings to a general mutiny and 
dispersion. Strong symptoms, however, of discontent 
have appeared in particular instances ; and nothing 
but the most active efforts everywhere can long avert 
80 shocking a catastrophe." 

At that time blankets were so scarce, that many of 
the soldiers were compelled to sit up all night at the 
fires. They were destitute of that covering which 
should have kept them comfortable while they slept. 
But this was not all. They wanted, in many cases, 
decent clothing to leave their huts. The officers also, 
though not so poorly provided, suffered great hard- 
ships. The whole number in the field, when the 
army came into the encampment, was eleven thou- 
sand and ninety-eight. Two thousand eight hundred 
and ninety-eight of these were unfit for duty, from 
want of shoes and clothing. Yet, in this deplorable 
condition of the army, there were some who thought 
there should have been a winter campaign, and 
looked upon the army and its commander as inac- 
tive. Washington, in a statement made to Congress, 
represented the real condition of the army, and ad- 
ministered a rebuke to those who had presumed to 
remark on the inactivity of the troops : " I can assure 
those gentlemen, that it is a much easier and less 



OF GEORGE WASHINGTON. 283 

distressing thing to draw remonstrances in a com- 
fortable room by a good fireside, than to occupy a 
cold, bleak hill, and sleep under frost and snow, with- 
out clothes or blankets. However, although they 
seem to have little feeling for the naked and dis- 
tressed soldiers, I feel superabundantly for them ; 
and from my soul I pity those miseries, which it is 
neither in my power to relieve nor prevent." 

Washington's first care now was to supply the 
pressing wants of the array. The chief cause of the 
famine was not in the absolute scarcity, but in the 
mismanagement of the afiUirs of the commissariat de- 
partment. Congress having interfered with the mat- 
ter, Colonel Trumbull, a gentleman of ability, who 
had charge of the department, indignantly resigned ; 
and things fell into still greater confusion. A new 
system of arrangement was now absolutely necessary; 
and at the earnest solicitation of Washington, a com- 
mittee of five, who were termed the " committee of 
arrangement," was appointed to investigate the aft'airs 
of the army, and to assist the general in adopting 
the new system. The pay of the officers was found 
to be insulficient for their subsistence ; and it was 
ascertained that, for want of straw or materials to 
protect them from the wet earth, many of the troops 
had lost their lives. The army was in a more critical 
condition than when it lay before Boston ; and a 
aight attack upon it might have been fatal. 

While the Americans suftered greatly from want 
of food and clothing, the British troops passed the 
winter sumptuously in Philadelphia. An attempt 
was made to capture Henry Lee, where he was sta- 



284 THE LIFE AND TIMES 

tioned at an advanced post. But he distinguislied 
himself by his great valor, won the praises of the com- 
mander-in-chief, and on his recommendation to Con- 
gress he was appointed commander of two troops of 
horse, with the rank of major. Mrs. Washington now 
returned to Valley Forge, as also did Lady Stirling, 
Mrs. Knox, and the wives of other officers. Some 
misunderstanding having arisen in reference to the 
embarkation of the troops of General Burgoyne from 
Boston, Congress resolved not to permit the embarka- 
tion till it should receive the ratification of the con- 
vention from the court of Great Britain. Bryan Fair- 
fax, the old friend of Washington, visited the American 
camp, when on his way to England. The general was 
glad to see him, though they differed fundamentally 
in their views respecting the war. Baron Steuben, 
who had served in the army of Frederick the Great, 
came to the camp to offer his services, and was soon 
appointed inspector-general of the army. He ren- 
dered valuable aid to the troops, though he often 
became enraged at them ; and the rigid discipline to 
which he subjected them was exceedingly useful, 
though irksome. 

General Putnam had made a survey of the high- 
lands of the Hudson, and West Point had been 
selected as an eligible site for the erection of a forti- 
fication. Major-General McDougall, with Kosci- 
uszko to assist him as engineer, was ordered to take 
the command of the difterent highland posts. Briga- 
dier-General Parsons, who had been previously in 
command, was now directed to seize on the pei^on 
of Sir Henry Clinton, who lived at the Kennedy 



OP GEORGE WASHINGTON. 285 

l.vfuse, near the Batten-, and not far off the Hudson. 
The attempt was never made, in consequence of the 
wise suggestion of Alexander Hamilton, that they 
knew the feeble disposition and abilities of Clinton, 
but did not know those of his successor, who might 
be an abler and more formidable man. The idea was 
therefoie abandoned. 

The capture of Burgoyne and his array had a 
powerful effect in England and France. The former 
feared that France was about to take up arms in the 
American cause; in consequence of which apprehen- 
sion Lord North's "conciliatory bills" were passed 
in Parliament. One of these regulated taxation in 
such a way as was thought might be acceptable to 
the colonies; the other clothed commissioners with 
full power to negotiate a peace. General Tryon has- 
tened with these bills to Washington, who sent them 
to Congress, with the just remark, that the time for 
overtures was past. The bills were in favor of peace ; 
but it was agreed there could be no peace till all the 
hostile fleets and armies were withdrawn, and an 
acknowledgment made, in express terms, of the in- 
dependence of the United States. On the 2d of Alay, 
1778, a messenger arrived from France, bearing two 
treaties- one of which stipulated that should war 
occur b«^ween France and England, it should be an 
agreement between the contracting parties, that nei- 
ther of them should proclaim the war without the 
concurrence of the other; and that, should a war 
take place, neither should lay down their arms before 
the establishment of the independence of the United 
States. There was great rejoicing at Valley Forge at 



286 THE LIFE AND TIMES 

tlift receipt of this news, and shouts of "long live 
the King of France," "long live General "Washing- 
ton," reverberated around the tottering huts of the 
destitute hut heroic troops. The enthusiasm was im- 
mense, and proclaimed Washington to he the idol of 
the soldiery. On the 8th a council of war decreed 
that they should remain on the defensive, and not 
attempt offensive measures without an opportunity 
of striking some decisive blow. 

Sir William Howe had now finished his military 
career, and was superseded by Sir Henry Clinton, 
who took the command on the 18th of May. Howe 
was a man of amiable and engaging manners. He 
held an extraordinary pageant at Philadelphia, a 
kind of regatta and tournament, at which the un- 
fortunate Major Andre performed a conspicuous part. 
The British force in Philadelphia at that period 
amounted to nineteen thousand five hundred and 
thirty men. When Clinton took the command, in- 
dications were exhibited of the evacuation of Phila- 
delphia. To watch the movements of the enemy, 
Lafayette was sent with twenty-one hundred horse. 
Crossing the Schuylkill on the 18th of May, he pro- 
ceeded to Barren Hill; and either by the carelessness 
or treachery of a picquet, was nearl}^ surrounded by 
a force sent out to intercept him. He saw their pur- 
pose, and threw out small parties to show themselves 
at different portions of the wood, as if he meditated 
an attack. The enemy came to a halt, and Lafayette 
pushing on, crossed the Schuylkill at Mason's Ford, 
and took up a strong position on the other side. The 
alarm guns at sunrise had informed Washington of 



OF GEORGE WASHINGTON. 287 

his danger. The g'eneral with his staff galloped to 
the summit of a hill, and by the aid of his glass, dis- 
covered that the marquis was safe, who, returning at 
length to Valley Forge, was hailed with loud accla- 
mations. An exchange was effected at this time of 
General Lee for General Preston. Lee was now re- 
stored to his position of second in command. Colo- 
nel Ethan Allen was also liberated in exchange for 
Colonel Campbell. 

Preparations were now made by the British for the 
evacuation of Philadelphia ; and ISTew York was un- 
derstood as the place of their destination. Affairs 
remained in suspense during three weeks. The New 
Jersey militia, and a brigade of troops under Max- 
well, were now on the alert to throw down bridges, 
and to harass the enemy if they attempted to march 
through that State ; and Washington held the army 
in readiness to march to the Hudson the moment 
there should be any necessity for it. The British 
commissioners arrived in Philadelphia on the 6th of 
June, 1778 ; but they were left in the dark by their 
own ministry in reference to their mission. Orders 
had been given to evacuate Philadelphia three weeks 
before their arrival, and to fix the British head-quar- 
teis at New York. Yet they knew nothing of tliese 
orders. They were, therefore, surprised and indig- 
nant. The "conciliatory acts" and other documents 
with which they were intrusted, were forwarded to 
Congress; and in the first reading came near being 
rejected on account of some language disrec-pectful to 
Prance. In the reply made by Congress, they ex- 
pressed a willingness to treat for peace when the 



288 THE LIFE AND TIMES 

King of Great Britain should evince a sincere desire 
for it by the withdrawal of his troops, and by an ex- 
plicit acknowledgment of the independence of the 
United States. The commissioners made several at- 
tempts to corrupt members of Congress; and when 
their transactions became known to that body, it was 
resolved that their honor would not permit them to 
have anything further to do with the commissioners. 
They then attempted to seduce the general public; 
and offered to treat with delegates of different colo- 
nies or provincial assemblies. But all these efforts 
proved to be futile, and they at length returned in 
disgust to England. 

The sagacity of Washington had been unable to 
account for the delay of the British troops in evacua- 
ting Philadelphia. His own army now consisted of 
twelve thousand continentals, and thirteen hundred 
militifl.. That of the enemy was reduced b}- a detach- 
ment of five thousand sent to the West Indies, and 
three thousand despatched to Florida. Most of the 
cavalry had been ordered to New York. The aid of 
Baron Steuben had been found of great importance 
to the Americans. The commander thought the best 
route was through the Jerseys. General Lee opposed 
this opinion, and had relapsed into his former super- 
cilious manner of criticizing generals and military 
affairs. Washington called a council of war on the 
I7th. The question to be decided was, whether the 
Miemy should be attacked if their route lay through 
t.!ie Jerseys, or whether they should push on at once 
to the Hudson, and thus secure the means of com- 
munication between the Southern and Eastern States; 



OF GEORGE WASHINGTON. 289 

and also whether, in case an attack was made, it 
should be a general or a partial one. Lee strongly 
opposed a general attack. Greene, Lafayette, and 
others, thought the enemy should be made to pay for 
all the sufferings and privations endured at Valley 
Forge. Washington agreed with the latter opinion ; 
but requested each officer to state his views in writing. 
The British had evacuated Philadelphia before this 
was done; the army moving with great secrecy on 
the 18th, so that the rear-guard reached the Jersey 
shore at ten o'clock. The first impulse of Washing- 
ton was to send General Maxwell and his brigade to 
aid the New Jersey militia in annoying the enemy 
on their march, and to despatch Arnold to take pos- 
session of Philadelphia. He prepared to take the 
command of the main body in person, and pursue 
the enemy with all the celerity possible. He was 
compelled to march up the right bank of the Dela- 
M^are as far as Trenton, and to cross at the spot ren- 
dered famous as that at which he had crossed to attack 
the Hessians. On the 20th he had proceeded as far 
as Coryell's Ferry. He was de ained by heavy rains, 
and could not cross until the 24th. The enemy were 
then at Moorestown and Mount Holly ; and their 
march was slow. Rain, heat, and the want of bridges, 
which the Americans had broken down, retarded the 
advance of Sir Henry Clinton. This slowness of 
movement on his part, induced Washington to think 
that he wished to draw him into an engagement. 
Washington determined to act upon the opinions of 
Greene, Wayne, and Lafayette, which coincided with 
his own; and to have the main body in a condition 
25 T 



290 THE LIFE AND TIMES 

to fight should this course be deemed advisable. Clin 
ton marched first to Brunswick, but as he thought 
the passage of the Raritan would be disputed, he took 
the road through Freehold to Navesink and Sandy 
Hook, designing to embark from thence. No doubt 
was then entertained of the route of the British, and 
one thousand men under Wayne were ordered to join 
the advance. 

Washington now moved the main body of the army 
to Cramberry. Lafayette set out on the 25th to join 
General Scott; but Lee had changed his purpose, and 
desired, as the corps was six thousand strong, to com- 
mand it. Washington did not know how to adjust 
the matter without doing violence to the feelings of 
Lafayette. A change in the tactics of Sir Henry gave 
an opportunity to Washington to extricate himself 
from the dilemma. It became necessary to augment 
the advanced corps in sending Lee forward ; and 
therefore, being the senior officer, he would neces- 
sarily take the command. In a letter the geiieral 
explained the matter to Lafayette, and the marquis 
resigned the command. 

On the evening of the 27th the enemy encamped 
at Monmouth Court House. General Lee w^as posted 
about five miles distant, at Englishtown. The main 
body of the Americans was three miles in the rear. 
The position of Sir Henry was carefully reconnoitred 
by Washington at sunset. Sir Henry was well pro- 
tected in his present position ; but if he were to ad- 
vance to Middletown, he would be in a stronger 
position still. This he determined to prevent ; and in 
order so to do, gave orders to Lee to have his troops 



OP GEORGE WASHINGTON. 291 

ready, lying all night on their arms, and to attack the 
-ear of the British in the morning. He then returned 
to his own place in the main body ; but ordered Lee 
to send off a detachment of seven hundred men to 
watch the enemy's movements, and to check them on 
the route. 

An express at length informed "Washington that 
the British were in motion. He ordered Lee to attack 
them, promising that he would hasten to support him. 
Knyphausen descended the valley, and Sir Henry 
remained at Freehold Heights, though afterward he 
marched toward Middletown. As Washington ad- 
vanced, he was astonished to meet the whole com- 
mand under Lee in full retreat. This was an alarm- 
ing disaster, and might have led to a general defeat. 
"Washington advanced to General Lee, and peremp- 
torily ordered him to re-form his troops, and bring 
them again into action. The command was obeyed, 
and order was again restored in the American lines. 
Lord Stirling commanded the left wing, and placed 
his cannon in such a position as to do effectual damage 
to the enemy. The right was placed under General 
Greene. Wayne brought up a body of infantry. After 
a desperate engagement, night and darkness put an 
end to the battle. "Washington slept in his cloak to 
])e ready for action, and the troops reposed on their 
arms. But Clinton withdrew his troops in silence, 
from the scene of his defeat. 

This battle accomplished much to inspire the troops 
with new courage. The British lost four officers, and 
about three hundred men. The Americans lost sixty- 
nine killed. As Sir Henry hastened through Jersey, 



292 THE LIFE AND TIMES 

one hundred were taken prisoners, and six hundred 
deserters reached Philadelphia. The British arrny 
was thus reduced twelve hundred men. Lord Howe's 
fleet was ready to convey the troops from Sandy 
Hook ; and Washington having crossed the Hudson, 
encamped at a short distance from White Plains. 
Two letters written by General Lee to the com- 
mander at this time, evinced disrespect; and he was 
subsequent!}' tried by a court-martial on three charges: 
disobedience, misbehavior, and disrespect to tbe com- 
mander. He was pronounced guilty, and suspended 
for one year from all command. He then left the 
army; and after some wanderings, returned to Phila- 
delphia four years after, in which city he subsequently 
died. 

Before the army had crossed the Hudson, news 
came of the arrival of the Count d'Estaing with a 
French fleet, consisting of twelve ships of the line 
and four frigates. Arrived at the Capes of the Dela- 
ware, the count received information of the evacua- 
tion of Philadelphia ; and after sending a frigate up 
the river, he sailed for Sandy Hook, where Washing- 
ton congratulated him on his arrival, and planned 
with him a joint attack. Colonel Hamilton was after- 
ward sent on board with four pilots, to explain the 
views of the commander to the count. The refusal 
of the pilots to take the responsibility of conducting 
the heavy ships over the bar, prevented an immediate 
attack on the enemy's fleet in Sandy Hook, with a 
simultaneous attack on land. There were then six 
thousand troops stationed chiefly at Newport in gar- 
rison ; and the French proceeded to that place. To 



OF GEORGE WASHINGTON". 293 

render the attack on them effectual, troops were sent 
thither to co-operate, under Generals Sullivan, La- 
fayette, and Greene. Several causes produced the 
failure of this expedition, which it is not here neces- 
sary to trace. An attack was concerted ; and some 
works being abandoned, Sullivan thought he would 
profit by the circumstance, and cross the river in flat- 
bottomed boats to take them. This proceeding of- 
fended the count, as interfering with his prerogatives; 
and a coldness ensued which effectually prevented all 
vigorous measures. Several plans were now sug- 
gested for the campaign of 1779 ; but a purely defen- 
sive one was that adopted, as best suited to the ex- 
hausted resources of the country. Besides the com- 
parative cheapness of this policy, Washington thought 
that no great need existed to multiply the calamities 
of war by any extraordinary exactions ; as the alli- 
ance of France, and the indications of a war between 
England and Spain, rendered it certain that in the 
end the independence of the United States would be 
secured, whenever peace would be proclaimed be- 
tween them. 

During the winter of 1779 the enemy remained 
within their lines in ISTew York, and nothing of any 
great moment was attempted on either side ; spring 
likewise passed away, and yet no remarkable event 
happened. The massacres of "Wyoming and Cherry 
Valley had caused universal indignation at the recital 
of their horrors. Washington therefore fitted out an 
expedition against the Six Nations of Indians, who, 
instigated by British agents and Sir John Johnston, 
had attacked and ravaged the frontiers, and carried 
25* 



294 THE LIFE AND TIMES 

desolation to the inhabitants. Several independent 
companies from New York and Pennsylvania joined 
the four thousand continental troops under General 
Sullivan, whose head-quarters were at Wyoming 
He advanced from this position into the Indian terri- 
tory along the Susquehanna; there he met General 
Clinton, who came from the Mohawk River by way 
of Lake Otsego, and formed a junction with Sullivan 
at the fork of the Susquehanna. With him he ad- 
vanced into the settlements of the savages ; and with 
their combined force, amounting to five thousand 
men, they defeated a band of Tories and Indians, 
whom they drove back. They then continued their 
march in a circuit as far as the Genesee, and de- 
stroyed houses, villages, provisions, and propert}^ of 
every kind. They pursued the Indians as far as Nia- 
gara, where they were protected by the British gar- 
rison. The army then returned by the Susquehanna 
to Wyoming. 

A detachment of two thousand five hundred British 
was sent to Virginia in the spring of 1779, under 
General Matthews, which sacked the town of Suffolk; 
and after destroying an immense amount of provi- 
sions and burning the village, they seized a large 
quantity of tobacco, sunk or destroyed many vessels, 
captured others, and then escaped with their plun- 
der. The squadron, on its return, was joined by 
vessels on which a large body of troops were em- 
barked ; and the expedition then sailed up the Ilnd- 
Ron, under Sir Henry Clinton, whose aim was to take 
Stony Point and Verplanck's Point on the Hudson, 
und thus make himself master of the highlands, their 



OF GEORGE WASHINGTON. 295 

passes and fortifications. The American troops sta- 
tioned in Jersey soon arrested the further progress of 
the enemy in that direction, but did not arrive in time 
to prevent the capture of the two posts already 
named ; and these were unable to resist an army of 
six thousand men, assisted b}^ a powerful naval arma- 
ment. A strong garrison was left at each of these 
posts, and the fortifications were continued which had 
been already commenced at the time of their capture. 
"Washington having left a suflicient force to hinder 
the advance of the enemy, placed his army in and 
ftbout the highlands, and made New Windsor, near 
West Point, his head-quarters. 

Thirty-five thousand two hundred and eleven men 
constituted the nominal force which Congress desig- 
nated for the campaign of 1780. Several difficulties 
impeded the raising of this large army ; one of these 
was the depreciated continental currency. Prior to 
March of that year two hundred million dollars had 
been issued by Congress ; of which no portion had 
ever been redeemed. Forty paper dollars were worth 
only one in specie, and the eft'ect of this disproportion 
was to derange every branch of business. Another 
difficulty was the bad system of procuring supplies, 
which left it with each of the States to furnish a cer- 
tain quota. The large number of hands through 
which the business must necessarily pass, the want of 
authority to compel promptitude, the difficulty of 
transportation, and various other causes, operated in a 
most disastrous manner; and, till it was abandoned, 
greatly perplexed the commander-in-chief. Paper 
money was made a legal tender by the Congress, and 



296 THE LIFE AND TIMErf 

all debts might be paid, at the nominal value, in thia 
currency. Many persons took advantage of this de- 
cree to liquidate their liabilities ; but the expedient 
was regarded as unjust by Washington, who was a 
Bufferer himself by it, to a very large extent. Fresh 
enlistments were now to be made, and each State 
was ordered to furnish its quota of troops to oppose 
the enemy's force, which now amounted in New 
York to seventeen thousand effective men. 

General Lafayette returned from France in April, 
1780, and brought the joyful news that an armament 
of land and naval forces was prepared by the govern- 
ment of that country, and would soon arrive in the 
United States. They subsequently arrived on the 
10th of July, and entered the harbor of Newport. 
The forces consisted of eight ships-of-the-line, two 
frigates, two bombs, and over five thousand troops. 
The Chevalier de Ternay commanded the fleet, while 
the army was under the Count de Rochambeau. 
Another division at Brest, detained for want of trans- 
ports, was soon expected. The harmony between the 
French and American troops was promoted by the 
excellent arrangement, according to which all of 
them were to be under the orders of General Wash- 
ington ; and when the armies were together prece- 
dence was to be given the American troops by the 
French. French officers of equal rank were to be 
under the command of American officers, and in all 
military acts the American generals were to take the 
lead. Lafayette informed Washington of these in- 
structions in detail ; and the Count de Rochambeau 
Bent him an official copy of them. This policy pro- 



OF GEORGE WASHINGTON. 297 

moted harmony and friendship from the beginning 
to the conclusion of the service; and Washington, as 
a compliment to the French, who wore white in their 
cockades, recommended the continental officers to 
blend it with the black, as a symbol of friendship. 
A plan of co-operation was now adopted, which was 
afterward postponed in consequence of the arrival of 
Admiral Graves with six ships, which rendered the 
British force superior to the French. 



298 THE LIFE AND TIMES 



CHAPTER XXVII. 

fRKNCH FLEET BLOCKADED — INTERVIEW BETWEEN THE COMMANDERS 
ITS RESULT REVOLT OF THE PENNSYLVANIA LINE — WISE CON- 
DUCT OF WAYNE, AND PLAN OF WASHINGTON WITH THE JERSEY LINK 

ARTICLES OF CONFEDERATION — BATTLE OF THE COWPENS AFFAIR 

OF M'GOWAn's ford — PROCLAMATION OF CORNWALLIS — STATE OF 
GREENE'S ARMY — RETREAT OF CORNWALLIS — FRENCH FLEET IN THE 
CHESAPEAKE — WASHINGTON AT NEWPORT OPERATIONS OF LAFA- 
YETTE THE ENEMY AT MOUNT VERNON FRENCH AUXILIARIES 

ATTACK ON NEW YORK ABANDONED ROBERT MORRIS — THE MARCH 

OF THE ALLIES SOUTHWARD — SIEGE OF YORKTOWN SURRENDER OF 

CORNWALLIS. 

Sir Henry Clinton was duly apprised of the des- 
tination of the French fleet, and resolved to exert 
himself to counteract its operations in behalf of the 
cause of America. Six thousand troops were detailed 
to attack the French in Newport in conjunction with 
the fleet ; but while he was making his preparationis, 
Count Eochambeau and General Heath had so aug- 
mented their forces, that Sir Henry was compelled to 
return to New York without eftecting his object. He 
feared also that, as Washington had crossed the Hud- 
son, he might attack New York. The French fleet 
could not act without a superiority to the English, 
and was now blockaded in Newport by General Ar- 
buthnot. The other division was detailed at Brest, 
and that under De Guichen never sailed for the 
United States at all. The French army was on board 



OF GEORGE WASHINGTON. 299 

the fleet, which it remained to protect. An interview 
took place between the American general and the 
French admiral on the 21st of September, at Hart- 
ford ; but as a naval superiority was the basis of an}' 
future enterprise, it was impossible at present to con- 
cert any scheme of co-operation, and any plan must 
rest on contingent circumstances. 

The year 1781 opened with a formidable revolt of 
the Pennsylvania line stationed at Morristown ; which 
might have been attended with serious consequences. 
Fifteen hundred of these men paraded under arms ; 
refused to obey their officers; and when General 
"Wayne pointed his pistols at them, their bayonets 
were at his breast. "We love you," they said, "we 
respect you; but you are a dead man if you fire. Do 
not mistake us; we are not going over to the enemy; 
were they to come out, you would see us fight under 
your orders with as much resolution and alacrity as 
ever." A bloody affray ensued, in which many were 
wounded on both sides, and one captain was killed. 
The mutineers compelled three regiments to join 
them, and were then thirteen hundred strong. They 
seized on six field-pieces, and under the command of 
sergeants marched to Philadelphia to demand redress 
of their grievances from Congress. They complained 
that their pay was in arrears ; that they were paid in 
the paper currency which was so much depreciated; 
and that, in addition to the hardships which they suf- 
fered, many of them were detained beyond the time 
of their enlistment. They had been enlisted to serve 
three years or during the war, and when on the ex- 
piration of three years they had demanded their dis- 



300 THE LIFE AND TIMES 

charge, the officers interpreted the agreement to mean 
three years, or shonld the war continue any longer, 
until its close. The prudence of "Wayne in procuring 
supplies for them on the march, prevented them from 
plundering the inhabitants, and an express sent to 
Washington informed him of the revolt. He advised 
Wayne to do all in his power to soothe their irritated 
feelings, and drawing out a statement of their griev- 
ances, promised to represent their case to Congress. 

This course produced a good efJ'ect. The President 
of Pennsylvania met them at Trenton, and some of 
them who had served three years M'^ere discharged, cer- 
tificates being given for the deficit in their pay. All 
their arrears were to be settled as soon as possible. The 
men were to be furnished with the articles of clothing 
necessary to their immediate wants. Those who were 
not discharged, obtained a furlough of forty days, and 
thus the whole revolting force were disbanded for a 
time. Two spies sent by Clinton to tamper with the 
troops, were given up and hanged. The revolters 
scorned the idea of deserting to the enemy, and said 
they had no intention of becoming Arnolds. 

Washington, who questioned the policy pursued in 
this case, had an opportunity of acting in accordance 
with his own views ; and doubting what results the 
example of the late revolt might produce, he ordered 
a thousand picked men from the highland regiments 
to be ready for action at a moment's notice. The 
New Jersey troops soon afterward revolted, and 
threatened to march to Trenton and obtain redress 
of grievances from the State Legislature at the point 
of the bayonet. Six hundred men, under the com- 



OF GEORGE WASHINGTON. 301 

hiW'd of General Howe, were ordered to reduce the 
muUneers to unconditional submission. This was 
speedily accomplished. The mutineers were taken 
by surprise, ordered to parade without their arras, 
and to deliver up the ringleaders. They obeyed, and 
two of them were shot. The remainder returned to 
their duty, and thus the mutiny was suppressed. 

"Washington rejoiced to see the articles of confede- 
ration between the States ratified at this time ; for 
though a set of articles had been submitted by Dr. 
Franklin in 1775, they were retarded by the disputes 
of some of the States. The confederation was now 
complete, and was expected to exert the happiest in- 
fluence in this country and in Europe. The com- 
mander-in-chief, in a letter to the President of Con- 
gress, congratulated him in suitable terms on the long 
wished for and propitious event. 

Washington now wrote to the Count de Eocham 
beau, who commanded the French fleet, suggesting 
that M. Destouches should at once sail with his 
whole fleet, and with a thousand French troops, to 
Virginia. An engagement between the French and 
English squadrons took place at the Capes of Virginia, 
in which the trophies of courage and victory were 
about equal. When Washington was informed that 
M. de Tilly had sailed to the south, he sent twelve 
hundred men, under the Marquis de Lafayette, to 
co-operate with the French against Arnold. Baron 
Steuben had operated in Virginia against that traitor 
before the arrival of Lafayette, who, as the senior 
officer, had now command of all the continental 
troops, and all the militia in that State. Washington 
26 



302 THE LIFE AND TIMES 

proceeded to confer with the French commanders at 
Newport. He set out on the 2d of March, and arrived 
after a journey of three weeks. The citizens of New- 
port presented an address to him in public, expressing 
the gratitude they felt for his services to his country. 
They dwelt on the joy it gave them to see him among 
them. He declared the lively satisfaction he experi- 
enced, and reciprocated their kindly sentiments, tak- 
ing notice also of the magnanimity of the French 
allies, their zeal in the American cause, and their 
claims to the lasting gratitude of the nation. 

No general arrangement could then be made for 
concerted action, on account of the uncertainty of the 
designs of the enemy. Though not then known, it 
became evident afterward that Sir Henry Clinton 
attempted to change the seat of war to the Chesapeake 
and Pennsylvania; to effect which two thousand men, 
under General Phillips, were sent to Virginia to co- 
operate with Arnold and Lord Cornwallis, who were 
expected to proceed through North Carolina and form 
a junction with these troops. As no part of the French 
fleet arrived in the Chesapeake, Lafayette, who was 
to act in concert with them, led his army to Annapo- 
lis; and having heard that the English, instead of the 
French fleet, was in the Chesapeake, he prepared to 
return to the Hudson. But when he had reached the 
head of the Elk, he received orders from Washington 
to march southward, and meet the British in Virginia, 
or join the Southern array. One of the enemy's vessels 
which ascended the chief rivers of the Chesaprase 
Bay, sailed up the Potomac to Mount Vernon. Lund 
Washington incurred the displeasure of the general 



OF GEORGE WASHINGTON. 303 

by yielding to the demands which the enemy made, 
in order to save the mansion and estate from threat- 
ened ruin. "Washington would rather have heard 
that Mount Yernon was in ruins, than that his stew- 
ard, who was his representative, should have visited 
the vessels of the enemy, and furnished them with 
refreshments. These sentiments coincided with those 
which ever characterized the public and private life 
of Washington. 

An entry made in Washington's diary of the 1st 
of May, 1781, shows the condition of the army to 
have been destitute of many necessaries ; and the 
prospect of the coming campaign to have been gloomy 
in the extreme. He was soon cheered, however, by 
the arrival of Count de Barras in Boston harbor, with 
a French frigate, and with the news of a reinforce- 
ment of troops from France, and of another fleet from 
the West Indies, which would sail for the United 
States, under the Count de Grasse. A conference 
took place on the 22d of May, at Weathersfield, in 
Connecticut, between the American and French com- 
manders. The Count de Barras was detained at New- 
port, as a British squadron had appeared. That 
nobleman had succeeded M. Destouches in the com- 
mand. On the part of the French, the Marquis de 
Chastellux, who held the rank of major-general in 
the army, accompanied Count de Rochambeau ; the 
commander-in-chief, with Generals Knox and Dupor- 
tail, attended on the part of the Americans. 

Two things, claimed the chief attention of this con- 
ference : an expedition to Virginia, and an attack 
in concert on New York. These points were freely 



b04 THE LIFE AND TIMES 

debated, and it was finally arranged that Count de 
Rocliambeau should march from Newport, and join 
the American army on the Hudson. At this time 
Washington wrote to the governors of the Eastern 
States, requesting them to furnish their quotas ; and 
if men could not be enlisted for three years or during 
the war, to enlist them for the campaign only, as the 
demand for their service was imperative. The militia 
were to defend Newport in the absence of the French 
fleet. 

Washington was holding correspondence, during 
all this time, with the most distant portions of his 
command, and directing the operations under Gene 
rals Greene and Lafaj-ette at the South ; while the 
Canadian frontier, and the western posts beyond the 
AUeghenies, also claimed his attention. Robert Mor- 
ris, then recentl}' appointed Superintendent of Finance 
by Congress, procured on his personal credit two 
thousand barrels of flour for the army, of which it 
was in great need. The first position of the Ameri- 
can army was at Peekskill, and it afterward encamped 
at Dobbs' Ferry on July the 4th. It was joined by 
Count de Rochambeau on the 6th, and the French 
occupied the left, extending to the Bronx in a single 
line. An inefl'ectual attempt had been made by Gene- 
ral Lincoln and the Duke de Lauzun previously, on 
the north side of New York Island. The two com- 
manders reconnoitred the works; but so slow were 
the recruits in coming in, that the army was never 
capable of an attack, unless in the case of the supe- 
riority of the French fleet to that of the enemy. 
Count de Grasse was therefore advised to sail to Sandy 



OF GEORGE WASHINGTON. 305 

Hook. He sent a letter to the effect that he would 
soon sail from St. Domingo to the Chesapeake with 
his whole fleet, and three thousand two hundred 
troops. He could not, however, remain on the coast 
beyond October; and this circumstance changed the 
aspect of affairs. It was agreed, therefore, to give up 
the siege of 'New York ; and, taking as many of the 
American forces as could be spared from the defences 
and highlands of the Hudson, proceed with the re- 
mainder and the French troops to Virginia. The 
advance of Cornwallis into the lower counties of Yir 
ginia, was checked by the valor and skill of the Mar- 
quis de Lafayette, whose prudence and good general- 
ship merited and received the praises of Washington. 
The King of France, through the minister of war, 
expressed his approbation by the assurance given 
that, when the United States no longer required the 
services of the marquis, he should be raised to the 
rank of field-marshal in the French army. It should 
be mentioned to his honor that, when in Baltimore, he 
had clothed the troops at a cost of two thousand pounds, 
drawn from his own funds. The Hudson was now 
left in command of General Heath, and the two armies 
advanced through Philadelphia to the head of the 
Elk. Robert Morris obtained a loan of twenty thou- 
sand dollars for the use of the troops, as they marched 
through that city. On the way southward, Washing- 
ton stopped at Mount Yernon. Six eventful years 
had elapsed since he had been sheltered under its 
peaceful roof; and now, with his suite, the Count de 
Chambeau, the Marquis de Chastellux, and other dis- 
tinguished guests, he was once more received and 
26* u 



306 THE LIFE AND TIMES 

entertained with the profuse hospitality of old Vir- 
ginia. He joined Lafayette at Williamsburg on the 
14th of September, 1781. Lord Cornwallis had hoped 
that the British would be superior to the French fleet, 
and had relied for aid on Sir Henry Clinton. He had 
taken possession of Yorktown, and of Gloucester, on 
the opposite side of the York River. These were 
places of considerable strength, especially the latter, 
into which he threw his main army, erected strong 
defences, and prepared for an obstinate siege. 

Meantime the whole fleet of Count de Grasse, 
twenty-six ships-of-the-line and several frigates, had 
encountered Admiral Graves oif the Capes, and had 
entered the Chesapeake Bay. The French squadron 
from Newport, under Count de Barras, had joined 
him. The army of Lafayette formed a union with 
the forces of the Marquis de St. Simon, consisting of 
three thousand men ; and the French and American 
troops were brought down in transports sent up the 
Chesapeake. At Cape Henry the two commanders 
held a conference on board the Ville de Paris, with 
Count de Grasse ; and the two generals marching 
all the troops from Williamsburg, the allied forces 
invested Yorktown on the 30th of September, 1781. 
The French were posted on the left, and formed a 
semi-circular line on the York Eiver. The Americans 
were stationed on the right. Lauzun's legion, ma- 
rines from the fleet, and Virginia militia, invested 
Gloucester. On the 6th of October, General Lincoln 
opened the first parallel, within six hundred yards of 
the enemy's works. Foundations for two redoubts 
were laid within it; its extent was nearly two miles; 



OF QEORUE "WASHIiVaTON. 307 

and the American and French soldiers worked at it 
in harmony, under a severe tire from the enemy. 
When the parallel and several batteries were com- 
pleted on the 9th, General Washington fired the first 
caimon. His operations were vigorous ; he observed 
the siege progressing with a great display of gallan- 
try on botli sides ; and though several times in immi- 
nent danger, he behaved with the utmost coolness 
and presence of mind. 

The siege was conducted with the usual routine of 
operations, both defensive and ofiensive ; but the 
chief event was the storming of two redoubts by a 
party of American light-infantry, headed by Lafay- 
ette ; and by a body of French grenadiers and chas- 
seurs, led on by the Baron de Viomenil. Both were 
successful under a destructive fire, and carried the 
redoubts at the point of the bayonet. Alexander 
Hamilton, who led the advance corps of the Ameri- 
can party, manifested extraordinary bravery. Corn- 
wallis soon saw that he could not hold the position. 
The defences were crumbling, and though his proud 
spirit recoiled from the thought of a surrender, he 
attempted to make his escape, though unsuccessfully. 
There was no other alternative, and on the 17th of 
October he dispatched a note, proposing a cessation 
of hostilities for twenty-four hours, and the appoint- 
ment of commissioners to confer in reference to the 
surrender of Yorktown and Gloucester. 

Washington desired Cornwallis to communicate 
the proposed terms in writing, and hostilities were 
suspended for that purpose. 8ome of the terms de- 
manded were inadmissible; and Washington sketched 
and sent on the 19th the outlines of a capitulation. 



308 THE LIFE AND TIMES 

snch as he was willing to accept. He expected that 
the terms would be signed by eleven o'clock, and the 
garrison would be ready to march out at two. Corn- 
wallis eventually complied with these terms. They 
were as follows: The troops in the garrison were to 
be given up as prisoners of war; all the artillery 
arms, military chests, stores, shipping, and boats, 
were to be delivered ; the officers were to retain their 
side-arms ; and the private baggage of officers and 
soldiers was to be retained, except that which had 
been taken in the country. 

The commissioners appointed on the part of the 
Americans and French were Colonel Laurens and 
Viscount de ISToailles ; and those on the part of the 
British were Colonel Dundas and Major Ross. The 
Bonetta sloop-of-war was left, at the request of Corn- 
wallis, to convey despatches to Sir Henry Clinton, 
[n it were taken all the traders within the lines ; and 
it was afterward to be returned, and with the crew, 
guns, and stores, to be surrendered. The British 
lost, in this siege, six hundred men ; the Americans 
and French three hundred in killed and wounded. 
The whole number of prisoners, exclusive of seamen, 
was seven thousand men. The allied army included 
seven thousand American regular troops, and four 
thousand militia; the French numbered five thou- 
sand. The land forces surrendered to General Wash- 
ington, while the seamen, ships, and naval trophies, 
were received by the French admiral. General Wash- 
ington obtained two stands of colors, Count de Jio- 
chambeau and Count de Grasse two field-pieces from 
the capture; and with these the commanders received 
the thanks of Conorress. 



OF GEORGE "WASHINGTON. 309 



CHAPTER XXVIII. 

W4.SHINGT0N URGES PREPARATIONS FOR ANOTHER CAMPAIGN — 
REASONS — THE NEWBURG ADDRESSES, AND CONCLUSION OF THB 
MATTER — VIEW'S OF A PEACE ESTABLISHMENT, AND CIRCULAR 
LETTER TO GOVERNORS OF STATES — PEACE PROCLAIMED — WASH- 
INGTON'S FAREWELL ADDRESS TO THE ARMY — AFFECTING SCENB 
IN PARTING WITH HIS OFFICERS — RESIGNATION OF HIS COMMlS* 
SIGN, AND RETIREMENT TO MOUNT VERNON — HE ENGAGES IN 
AGRICULTURAL PURSUITS — IS CHOSEN FIRST PRESIDENT OF THB 
UNITED STATES ADOPTION OF THE CONSTITUTION WASHING- 
TON'S DUTIES, AND HIS ILLNESS — HE RECOVERS HIS RULE3 

RESPECTING APPOINTMENTS — THE FUNDED DEBT — THE NATIONAI. 
BANK ESTABLISHED — DUTY IMPOSED ON LIQUORS DISTILLED IN 
THE INITED STATES. 

The Revolutionary struggle was now virtually ter- 
minated. The sword was to be turned into the 
ploughshare ; and the desperate vicissitudes of strife 
and blood to be exchanged for the more attractive 
scenes of concord and peace. The chieftain whose 
wisdom and prowess had conducted the patriot army 
through the triumphs of the Revolution, was about 
to dismiss his valiant ofHcers and his brave allies, and 
retire to the welcome retreat of Mount Vernon, and 
the cherished delights of home. He saw the armies 
of the despot vanquished, and the sceptre over the 
colonies broken ; but he also knew the stern temper 
of the British Cabinet, and the resources which might 
yet be employed to prolong the conflict. It was hi& 



810 THE LIFE AND TIMES 

policy to be prepared for the future, and have the 
country defended by the presence of a powerful force. 
The pacific pretensions of such a wily foe could not 
be depended upon, and to prepare for another cam- 
paign was the proper policy to be adopted. There- 
fore Washington stirred up the people to vigorous 
action. Six millions of livres, to be paid monthly by 
France, were of great advantage ; and in the depart- 
ure of the Marquis de Lafayette to that country, 
America would possess an ardent friend, who would 
be mindful of her interests. 

Nevertheless recruiting proceeded slowly, and 
Washington endeavored, by the strongest arguments, 
to induce the States to furnish their quotas. The 
officers who were in arrears of pay had become dis- 
contented, and serious consequences were appre- 
hended from that source. But a still more dangerous 
influence was at work; a letter addressed to the 
commander-in-chief expressed the idea that a mo- 
narchy should be erected in the colonies ; and sug- 
gested that the same abilities that had triumphed in 
the storms of war, would be no less likely to be use- 
ful in the calmer arena of peace. This idea was 
spurned by Washington with contempt; and he ex- 
hibited such marked manifestations of his displeasure 
•IS crushed the conspiracy in the bud. This he did 
at the zenith of his power, and when it was seriously 
proposed to make him king. 

Sir Guy Carleton arrived in New York, brmging 
the tidings of peace. He wrote in August to say 
that negotiations were then progressing in Paris, the 
first condition of which would be the recognition of 



OF GEORGE WASHINGTON. 311 

the independence of the United States. The French 
troops, after being two years and a half in the coun- 
try, returned in December to France. The army at 
Newburg became full of malcontents, on account of 
the prospects of the officers and privates. The arrears 
of pay due them seemed to be insecure, and in order 
to obtain their rights, they sent three of their num- 
ber with a memorial to Congress. While many in 
that body were found willing to commute half-pay 
for life into whole pay for five years, a sufiicient num- 
ber of States could not be induced to vote for it, and 
thus the matter was not adjusted. This gave rise to 
the famous Newburg Addresses, which were of a very 
inflammatory character, and summoned a meeting 
of the disafl^ected oflicers on the 10th of March, 1783. 
Washington, in his general orders, censured the 
anonymous address which had been published, and 
appointed a day for the meeting of the oflicers. This 
was held on the 15th of that month, at which time 
he addressed them, and promised to exert his utmost 
influence with Congress to have their grievances 
remedied, and their demands complied with. They 
thanked him, and by his prudence a state of tranquil- 
lity was restored, instead of one of insubordination 
and turbulence. Washington performed his pro- 
mise; Congress voted the commutation of half-pay, 
and redressed the other grievances complained of 
by the oflicers in their memorial. Peace was pro- 
claimed to the American army on the 19th of April, 
eight years after the first American blood had been 
eiied at Lexington. 

Tlie time had now arrived when Washington vvaa 



312 THE LIFE AND TIMES 

to separate from his brave companions-in-arms, the 
officers who had been his associates in the dang-era 
and trials of the war, and in whom he felt deeplj 
interested. Their last interview took place on the 
4th of December, at Francis' tavern, and the emo- 
tion which Washington exhibited on that occasion 
was intense. It was truly an impressive scene. He 
filled a glass, drank, and then added: "With a heart 
full of love and gratitude I now take leave of you ; 
I most devoutly wish that your latter days may be 
as prosperous and happy, as your former ones have 
been glorious and honorable. I cannot come to 
each of you to take my leave, but shall be obliged 
if each of you will come and take me by the hand." 
A tear trembled in the eye of every officer present. 
The silence which ensued was profound ; and after 
having bid adieu to each separately, Washington 
retired. As his barge lay at Whitehall, the com- 
pany followed him thither in mute procession ; and 
when he entered it, he took off and waved his hat 
to them as a final farewell. He now proceeded 
slowly to Annapolis, to which place Congress had 
adjourned ; and on his way met with innumerable 
tokens of respect and aftection from the people. 
Having arrived at Annapolis, he resigned his com- 
mission, on the 25th of December, 1783, in presence 
of a large concourse of spectators, in the hall of Con- 
gress ; and thus withdrew from public life, and from 
official duties, to the repose and seclusion of a private 
citizen. He reached Mount Vernon on the same 
day — a spot which, except on his way to Yorktown, 
he hud not seen for eight years and a half. His feel- 



OF GEORGE WASHINGTON. 313 

ings on this occasion were expressed in a letter to 
Lafayette i '* I have not only retired from all public 
employments, but am retiring within myself, and 
shall be able to view the solitary walk, and tread the 
paths of private life, with heartfelt satisfaction. En- 
vious of none, I am determined to be pleased with 
all ; and this, my dear friend, being the order of my 
march, I will move gently down- the stream of life, 
until I sleep with my fathers." 

One of the first duties which occupied the attention 
of Washington, on his return to Mount Vernon, was 
to look after his affairs ; which, in consequence of his 
prolonged absence, had fallen into much confusion. 
As he would not accept any compensation for his 
military services, he felt it the more imperative to 
repair his losses, and not only to economize, but to 
add to the value of his possessions. On his retire- 
ment from public life, the Executive Council of Penn- 
sylvania directed their delegates in Congress to say, 
that General Washington on his retirement, from the 
very fame of his illustrious achievements, would be 
put to expense by the admiration excited by his vir- 
tues ; that in such a view of the case, though he 
would accept no pecuniary compensation for his ser- 
vices, and the matter required to be treated with great 
delicacy ; yet, that the people of Pennsylvania would 
regret that his merits should be burdensome to him, 
and they relied on the good sense of Congress to give 
the matter an early attention. This step could not 
be taken without his previous knowledge, and he 
promptly expressed the wish that no movement of the 
kind should be made He now devoted his thou^hta 
27 



6l-t THE LIFE AND TIMES 

to i(i.provements on his farm, and the entertainment 
of such company as were attracted to Mount Yernon 
from respect and admiration of its owner. He re- 
ceived with affability the friends who visited hirn, 
and entertained strangers with dignified politeness. 
In the reception of his guests, he was aided by the 
discretion and amiable courtesy of Mrs. "Washington. 
Washington made a tour to the West in September, 
1784, in order to inspect some property which he 
owned beyond the Allegheny Mountains; and also 
to ascertain the practicability of opening a commu- 
nication between the waters that flow into the Atlantic 
and those that flow to the West, and fall into the Ohio 
River. He travelled on horseback the whole distance 
of six hundred and eighty miles, following the route 
formerly taken by Braddock. When he reached the 
Monongahela, he spent a few days in surveying some 
lands which he possessed there, and which had been 
partly settled. He ascended the Monongahela, and 
then travelled across the country between the ridges 
of the Allegheny Mountains. It was his intention to 
ascertain whether a communication could be opened 
between the western waters and the Potomac and 
James' Eivers. On his return he wrote to the Governor 
of Virginia, communicating to him the information 
he had gained in reference to the matter; explaining 
the immense advantages that would accrue to the 
country from such an intercommunication ; and set- 
ting forth how much commerce would thereby be 
facilitated. He urged the argument that the United 
States in that direction were possessed of formidable 
barriers; that the several States ought to be bound 



OF GEORGE WASHINGTON. 315 

together by indissoluble bonds ; he showed what inju- 
ries the Spaniards on the right, and Great Britain on 
the left, could effect by holding out inducements for 
the trade or alliance of those near them. He remarked, 
from what he saw, that the Western States stood on 
a pivot, w'hich the weight of a feather would turn 
either way. "They have looked down the Missis- 
sippi until the Spaniards, very impolitically, I think, 
for themselves, threw difficulties in their way." He 
then showed how that w^as the most favorable time for 
Virginia to undertake the enterprise, which she could 
do with the utmost advantage ; as the inhabitants of 
those territories w^ere willing to meet her more than 
half way. The State of Virginia, at that time, was 
prosperous and powerful. Her area extended from 
the Atlantic to the western vraters. She had two 
noble rivers, whose sources were in the Alleghenies ; 
and he thought a commencement of this great work 
could best be made then. 

On the departure of General Lafayette, who had ac- 
companied Washington during his journey through the 
Eastern and Middle States, and had been enthusias- 
tically received, and then spent two months in Mount 
Vernon, he wrote to his wife : " We restore the mar- 
quis to you in good health, crowned with wreaths of 
love and respect from every part of the Union." 
Lafayette was the attached friend of Washington, and 
these great men entertained the sincerest affection 
and esteem for each other. Washington entertained 
the conviction that this meeting would be their last; 
and such indeed proved to be the case. 

The letter sent by Washington to the Govei'nor of 



816 THE LIFE AND TIMES 

Virginia impressed the Legislature with the truth of 
his views; survej'ors were appointed, and two com' 
panies were organized, named the Potomac Company, 
and the James' River Company. The first offered 
Washington fifty shares of stock, valued at ten thou- 
sand dollars, and the other one hundred shares, which 
were worth five thousand pounds. To accept these 
tenders would have been contrary to his principles, 
while to decline them would be thought ungrateful, 
after the liberal manner in which they were offered 
to his acceptance. An answer was not needed till the 
next session of the Legislature. He apprehended that 
the non-acceptance of them might retard the opera- 
tion of the companies, by the withdrawal of the sub- 
scriptions for the shares made on his account. He 
therefore wrote to the governor to say that, if per- 
mitted to receive the proffered shares as an appro- 
priation for a public object, he would accept them. 
His proposal was agreed to; the shares of the James' 
River Company were transferred to Liberty Hall 
Academy, afterward called Washington College ; and 
the Potomac Company's shares he left, at his death, 
to found a university in the District of Columbia. 
Washington was ever the friend of education, pro- 
moted its interests by contributions and donations, 
and accepted the office of chancellor of William and 
Mary College. 

The famous Lady LIuntingdon at that time enter- 
tained a scheme for the civilization of the Indians. It 
was her design to send out a settlement at her own 
expense to introduce knowledge and the influences 
of the true religion among them. She wrote to 



OF GEORGE AVASHINGTON. 317 

Washington in reference to the matter, and he laid 
the aflair before Congress; but social and political 
reasons operating at that time, prevented the enter- 
prise from being carried into effect. "Washington re- 
gularly appropriated fifty pounds a year, out of his 
own means, to educate the poor children of Alex- 
andria; many benefactions were conferred by hira 
which were never brought to light ; and he even 
offered on several occasions to defray the college ex- 
penses of young men. 

W^ashington's agricultural employments were much 
interrupted by his extensive correspondence; by the 
numerous applications of all kinds made to him; by 
the company he was compelled to receive ; and also by 
the adjustment of his own accounts. Foreigners and 
his own countrymen resorted in large numbers to 
Mount Vernon. He rose early, and usually wrote or 
read until breakfast; after which he rode round his 
farm "to inspect the outposts." He then returned, 
re-entered his study, and there remained till three 
o'clock, which was his hour for dining. 

But whatever Washington's occupations and en- 
gagements may have been, his country always held a 
paramount claim upon his attention. Her Senators 
always consulted him in doubtful and important 
emergencies. The pressure of the war which had 
preserved the Union, now being taken ofi", the Fede- 
ral Congress retained but a feeble organization, pos- 
sessing little authority, and its power became in fact 
a mere shadow. The Confederacy was defective in 
many essential points, and Congress could neither 
regulate commerce, nor provide for the payment of 
27* 



318 THE LIFE AND TIMES 

the public debts. It had not the power to make trea- 
ties with foreign nations, or suppress discontents at 
home; and a crisis was approaching not less to be 
dreaded, perhaps, than the ordeal through which the 
nation had recently passed. The defects of the Ame- 
rican Confederacy at that period are familiar matters 
of history ; and need not now be pointed out more 
particularly. The thirteen States were in a condition 
of transition. The difficulties to be encountered 
were sufficiently great in themselves, but they were 
aggravated by designing men who endeavored to pro- 
mote their own malicious and selfish ends; and de- 
magogues diffused the rank venom of their baleful 
influence through the body politic. The States be- 
came jealous of the Federal Congress, and many 
thought that the less power possessed by that body, 
the better it would be for the several States. The 
condition of affairs was such, that between the sec- 
tional influences brought to bear, and the other defects 
under which the Confederacy labored, a speedy re- 
form must take place, or the Union must be dissolved. 
Washington clearly perceived the impending dan- 
gers. He possessed the same cool and steadj^ cou- 
rage, the same fertility of resources, the same bold 
yet prudent resolution, which had availed him on the 
battle-field. The flame of patriotism still burned 
within him, and all his private interests were nobly 
sacrificed on the altar of the Republic. It happened 
at that time, that the improvements suggested by 
him, and carried out by the Legislature of Virginia 
respecting the navigation of certain rivers, and the 
communication that would thus encircle the whole 



OF GEORGE WASHINGTON. 319 

country, and bind the Republic together; caused the 
assembling of commissioners from several States to 
take place in reference thereto ; and their delegates 
were to organize in a general convention, to which 
Washington was appointed delegate. He was thus 
placed in an embarrassing condition, inasmuch as, 
being President of the Cincinnati, — a society which 
had for its object the perpetuation of the friendship 
and intercourse of the officers of the army, and the 
aid of distressed members and their widows and or- 
phans; — and now being about to resign the presi- 
dency of the same, assigning as a reason for so doing 
that he found it inconvenient to attend its meetings 
in Philadelphia; for him then to appear at the Con- 
vention seemed inconsistent, and might give cause to 
suspect his sincerity toward the members of the So- 
ciety of the Cincinnati. The wisdom and prudence 
of Washington were imperatively required at the Con- 
vention ; and Congress had appointed the second 
Monday in May as the time for its meeting in Phila- 
delphia. This date possessed the advantage of allow- 
ing Washington also to be present at the meeting of 
the Cincinnati, if he wished so to do; and therefore he 
resolved to accept the appointment to the Convention 
as one of the delegates from Virginia. The result 
which he wished to effect by attending the Conven- 
tion, was thus expressed by himself: "My wish is, 
that the Convention may adopt no temporizing ex- 
pedients, but probe the defects of the Constitution to 
the bottom, and provide a radical cure, whether they 
are agreed to or not. A conduct of this kind will 
stamp wisdom and dignity on their proceedings, and 



820 THE LIFE AND TIMES 

hold up a light, which sooner or later will have its 
influence." He was received on his approach to Phi- 
ladelphia with public honors, and escorted by a troop 
of horse from Gray's Ferry, When the Convention 
was organized, all the States being represented but 
Rhode Island, its unanimous vote called "Washington 
to the Presidential chair. This office he filled with 
dignity and wisdom during the four months of the 
sitting of the Convention ; during which time the 
Constitution of the United States was adopted and 
substituted for the previously existing Articles of 
Confederation. All the members except three signed 
it on the 17th of September, 1787 ; copies of it were 
sent to Congress, and that body distributed them to 
the dift'erent States to be examined and approved by 
the several Legislatures. 

This Constitution was not regarded as perfect by 
any of its framers. The opinion of Washington, 
Franklin, Hamilton, and others was, that, taken as a 
whole, it was the best that could then be devised ; 
and the great marvel is, that the delegates of so many 
different and distant States, should, notwithstanding 
their local prejudices and conflicting interests, have 
framed and adopted such a Constitution. By a pre- 
valent spirit of compromise and mutual concession, 
the Constitution was accepted by the Conventions of 
dift'erent States, and the ratification of nine of them 
gave it validity and eflect. Under its provisions, 
Congress passed an act by which the people through- 
out the Union were, on a certain day, to appoint 
electors to choose a President of the United States, 
according to the Constitution, and another day for 
the electors to convene and vote for the person ap- 



OF aEORGE WASHINGTON. 321 

pi«»v^d by the nation. The first of these elections 
was to be held on the first Wednesday in February, 
1789; the other on the firet Wednesday of the en- 
Buing March. 

Since the adoption of the Constitution, the public 
choice was centered upon Washington as the first Pre- 
sident of tlie United States ; and the conviction was 
universal that he was the only person in whom the 
country could place unlimited and harmonious confi- 
dence. His reluctance to mingle again iu public lite 
was well known, yet it was also believed that the 
call of his country would never be heard by him in 
vain. The day of election arrived ; the electors as- 
sembled ; the vote was taken ; and George Washing- 
ton was chosen President of the United States, and 
John Adams Vice-President. 

A messenger was despatched to Mount Vernon 
bearing a letter from the President of the Senate, by 
which General Washington was officially informed of 
his election ; and two days after, on the 16th of April, 
he departed for New York, at that time the seat of 
Congress. His feelings are thus portrayed by his own 
hand: "About ten o'clock I bade adieu to Mount 
Vernon, to private life, and to domestic felicity ; and, 
with a mind oppressed with more anxious and pain- 
ful sensations than I have words to express, set out 
for New York in company with Mr. Thompson and 
Colonel Humphreys, with the best disposition to ren- 
der service to my country in obedience to its call, and 
with less hope of answering its expectations."* His 

* Immediately before his departure to New York to assume the 
duties of the Presidency, Washington hastened to Fredericksburg, 

V 



522 THE IIFE AND TIMES 

whole journey to Congress was attended by every 
possible demonstration of popular respect and admi- 
ration ; and he was met in New Jersey by three mem- 
bers of the Senate, and five of the House of Repre- 
sentatives, who, as a Committee from Congress, at- 
tended his public entry to New York. Processions, 
illuminations, and firing of guns, with the concourse 
of vast numbers of the inhabitants who poured forth 
on the occasion, hailed the public advent of the first 
President of the United States. On the 30th of April, 
1789, amid the exercises of devotion, the ceremonial 
that attends the high station, the escort of troops, 
and the crowding of multitudes, the oath of ofiice 
was publicly administered ; and the man whose vir- 
tues had saved the country in war, was now to sustain 
its interests in the not less trying scenes of political 
conflict. With sentiments of sincere dependence on 
the Almighty ; with the intimation that he would 
accept no compensation but the payment of his ex- 
penses ; uttered in a speech which indicated at once 
his deep emotions, the ardor of his zeal in his coun- 
try's cause, and his modest opinion of his own 

where his venerable mother still resided, at an extremely advanced 
age, to bid her farewell. She was afflicted with a cancer in the 
breast; and it was probable that they would never meet again. 
The interview between them is described as having been affecting 
\n the extreme. She bestowed her maternal blessing on her illus- 
trious son ; spoke of the pride and joy which she experienced in 
being the mother of one who had accomplished so much for his 
country's good; while he, on his part, promised to make her a 
speedy visit, expressed a hope for her recovery, and consoled her 
for the separation which his public duties required them to endure 
It proved to be their last interview. 



OF GEORGE WASHINGTON. 328 

abilities in the untried field before him ; the first 
magistrate of the nation entered on the difiicult 
duties of his oflice. No plan had as yet been orga- 
nized by Congress for the various departments of 
government; and therefore for the present, business 
was transacted by the officers who had previously 
been chosen. From each of these the President re- 
quested a report respecting the matters appertaining 
to their duties ; from which he diligently made ex- 
tracts with his own hand. With reference to foreign 
affairs, which were the most difficult and intricate of 
all the departments of Government, he visited the 
public archives, examined the official correspond- 
ence which took place between the end of the war 
and his Presidency; and making copious notes, fami- 
liarized his mind with every important subject. His 
growing attachment to agriculture, when leaving 
Mount Vernon, incited him in the intervals of public 
duty to mature the systematic pursuit and study of 
that art; and he exacted from the superintendent of 
his estate a weekly account of all the transactions of 
each day upon each of his farms, the number of men 
employed, and every circumstance which occurred. 
Thus he became acquainted with the entire details, 
as minutely as if he had been present ; and he 
made copies of his letters to his superintendent, 
which, with the reports received from him, he always 
put on file, and preserved. This practice he continued 
during the eight 3'ears of his Presidency ; and he also 
corresponded with such persons in Europe and Ame- 
rica as were distinguished for their eminence in the 
art of agriculture. 



324 THE LIFE AND TIMES 

It 800U became obvious to Washington that he 
must appoint certain hours in which to receive com- 
pany, or he would never enjoy any leisure or privacy. 
He gave notice, therefore, that all persons who chose 
to call on him might do so on Tuesdays between three 
and four o'clock. Every Friday afternoon visits were 
received by Mrs. Washington, at which the general 
was generally present. He was always accessible on 
matters of business by appointment. He received no 
calls on Sunday; on which day he attended church 
in the morning, and retired in the afternoon to his 
private apartment. Promiscuous company was not 
admitted in the evening of that day, which he usually 
spent with his family ; but an intimate friend was 
sometimes received. Washington was soon after 
seized by a dangerous illness, in which he was at- 
tended by Dr. Bard, an eminent physician of that day. 
The attack was very severe, confined him to bed six 
weeks, and it was six more before he regained hia 
strength. He had scarcely recovered, when he was 
informed of the death of his mother, who expired at 
the advanced age of eighty-two. 

Near the end of September, 1789, Congress ad- 
fourned for three months. They had been chiefly 
engaged in adopting such measures as were neces- 
sary to the organization of the Government, providing 
a suitable remedy for existing evils, and the establish- 
ment of the judiciary. Duties and tonnage on im- 
ported goods were imposed, and some amendments 
to the Constitution were suggested, and recommended 
for adoption by the States. A secretary was appointed 
to preside over each of the branches of the govern 



OF GEOKaE WASHINGTON. 323 

ment, including the department of foreign affairs, 
afterward termed the department of state, comprising 
both foreign and domestic affairs; the department ot 
the treasury; and the war department. The navy, 
which was yet small, was placed under the secretary 
of war. Proper persons were appointed to fill the 
different offices ; and from the great experience, the 
well-known disinterestedness, and the practical wis- 
dom of Washington, it might be expected that Con- 
gress could rely with confidence on his nominations. 
Thomas Jefferson was appointed secretary of state; 
Alexander Hamilton secretary of the treasury ; and 
the post of secretary of war, which he held under the 
Confederation, continued to be filled by General 
Knox. The ofiice of attorney-general was conferred 
upon Edmund Randolph of Virginia. It was decided 
that the Supreme Court should consist of a chief-jus- 
tice and five associate justices. 

Washington regarded the Supreme Court as the 
firmest pillar of good government, and evinced his 
conviction of its importance by the appointment of 
John Jay as chief-justice, deeming him qualified, by 
his legal ability and attainments, to occupy the prin- 
cipal post in " that department, which must be con- 
sidered the keystone of our political fabric." In all 
his appointments to offices, the President acted on the 
same uniform principle which regulated his conduct 
from first to last — a regard for the public good. 
With respect to qualifications for office, he considered 
three things as essential : the personal fitness of can- 
didates, their comparative claims, and the distribu- 
28 



826 IHE LIFE AND TIMES 

tion of appointments in equal proportions between 
persons from the different States. 

In the recess of Congress the President made a 
tour of the Eastern States, for the promotion of his 
health, observation of the people's condition, their 
appreciation of the new government, and for the 
review of those military scenes in which he performed 
the duties of commander-in-chief. In company with 
his two secretaries, Mr. Lear and Mr. Jackson, he 
travelled in his own carriage through New Haven, 
Hartford, Worcester, Boston, Salem, Newbury port, as 
far as Portsmouth in New Hampshire. He was un- 
able to advance a mile in any direction without attract- 
ing multitudes of enthusiastic admirers, who were 
gratified by a view of his person, and exhibited their 
affectionate delight and respectful veneration by 
greeting him with the most joyful acclamations. He 
was pleased to behold the improved state of the 
country, the agricultural prosperity, the abundant 
harvests, the flourishing manufactures, the extending 
commerce, and the increasing population. Order, 
peace, and contentment, evinced by the partiality of 
the people to the Constitution, and their attachment 
to the Government, gave a guarantee for its future 
security; and he returned to his duties improved in 
health, and greatly invigorated, mentally and physi- 
cally. 

In the first week in January, 1789, the President 
met the Congress in the Senate Chamber; and ac- 
cording to the custom during his administration, de- 
livered a speech on the opening of the session. This 
custom was afterward ciianged, and it became usual 



OF GEORGE WASHINGTON. 327 

for the President to eommuuicate with Congress by 
messages. Washington also, at other times, addressed 
messages to that body ; but at the commencement 
of a session he always delivered his views in person. 
After expressing a general congratulation on the 
prosperity of their affairs, he recommended to their 
attention, on that occasion, a better provision for the 
common defence ; laws for the naturalization of citi- 
zens ; uniformity in the currency, and in weights 
and measures; the promotion of commerce, agricul- 
ture, and manuYactures ; the diffusion of science and 
literature ; and lastly, a system of finance for the 
support of the public credit. 

A few days before the close of the last session, it 
was resolved to make adequate provision for the 
support of the public credit; and the Secretary of 
the Treasury was called on to prepare a plan for 
this purpose during the ensuing session. The Revo- 
lution was the chief source of the national debt, 
wliich was partly foreign, partly domestic ; the first 
portion of it was due to France, Holland, and Spain, 
and amounted to twelve million dollars ; the other 
wa? due to individuals in the United States, amounted 
to forty-two millions, and had been contracted by 
loans to Government, and supplies for the army. 
These debts had been incurred at the charge of tlie 
nation ; but beside these, there were due twenty-five 
millions for the erection of works of defence in dif- 
ferent States ; for advanced pay to soldiers ; and for 
supplies of clothing, provisions, and munitions of 
war. General Hamilton recommended the funding 
of all the debts together, and that the Confederacy 



328 THE LIFE AND TIMES 

should become responsible for the whole, and liqni- 
date it. In an able and comprehensive report the 
Secretary clearly demonstrated that all the debts 
should be thus assumed; that in equity no distinc- 
tion between these debts should be admitted ; but 
that as a matter of policy, as well as of justice, these 
obligations should be paid; and that every form of 
government which aimed at securing public confix 
dence, must honorably meet its engagements. 

The plan proposed by the Secretary met with mud 
opposition. Many persons contended that the debts 
contracted by Congress, of which the only evidences 
consisted in the paper currency, had greatly depre- 
ciated in amount, because the notes had passed 
through many hands for less than their nominal 
value ; and that, by this depreciation, the first credi- 
tors and the intermediate owners had been heavy 
losers; to pay their full value, therefore, to the present 
holders would not be just. Mr. Madison suggested 
a plan by which the present holders should be paid 
a certain portion, the balance to go to the origins,! 
holders. This proposition was rejected. 

The disposal of the State debts produced a still 
greater sensation in Congress, and much more ex- 
citement out of it. The discussion respecting them 
revived the doctrine of State sovereignty and State 
rights, which had occasioned so much difficulty dur- 
ing the war; and npw a host of new local prejudices 
were aroused, and invidious comparisons were insti- 
tuted between difierent States. It was urged l»y 
some that each State was responsible for its own 
obligations ; that to take the burden upon the 



or GEORGE WASHINGTON. 829 

nation, was an act which Congress had not the 
power to perform; and that such an assumption of 
authority would be hostile to the system and principles 
of republicanism. It was contended by another fac- 
tion, that tliis prerogative was expressly invested in 
Congress by the Federal Constitution ; that the sale of 
the public lands, and authority to raise revenues from 
imposts, belonged to Congress ; that the public debts 
would be paid more promptly, if assumed by the 
nation ; while they could be liquidated by the States 
only by means of excise duties, or by direct taxation, 
which would be objectionable in many respects. The 
strongest argument against the assumption of the 
State debts seemed to be, that the General Govern- 
ment would thereby gain an undue influence, and 
State sovereignty would be annihilated. 

The resolution against the assumption was carried 
in a few days by a small majority. Subsequently the 
delegates from North Carolina took their seats in 
Congress; after which, upon a motion to reconsider 
the resolution, it was eventually negatived. The plan 
of the Secretary was ultimately approved by both 
Houses of Congress by E small majority ; and its pas- 
sage is known to have been aided by the consideration 
of the place in which Congress would permanently 
sit in future. The choice lay between a site on the 
Delaware, and another on the Potomac; and that 
question induced two members who had voted against 
the assumption, and who represented a district on 
the Potomac, to vote in favor of the bill. This law 
afterward became one of the chief grounds of accuaa^ 
28* 



330 THE LIFE AND TIMES 

tion aguinst the administration of President Wash* 
ington. 

The foreign relations of the United States at thia 
period were in an unsettled condition. The understand- 
ing was good with France, though it soon became 
afi^ected by the French Revolution. A treaty which 
was made with the Emperor of Morocco, did not pre- 
vent the seizure of American vessels by the Algerines. 
The British forts had not been abandoned, as was 
stipulated by the treaty of peace, on the pretence that 
the debts due to British subjects had not yet been paid. 
The navigation of the Mississippi was the great diffi- 
culty with Spain, though others also. existed; and the 
expectation of the monarch of that country was, that 
the inhabitants of the West, wearied with obstruc- 
tions to their commerce, would separate from the 
Confederacy, and establish a distinct republic under 
Spanish influence. The interests of the country also 
BuiFered, on account of certain influences growing out 
of the relations existing between England and Spain; 
and the Indians on the frontiers, though not at the 
instance of these governyients, became incensed 
against the inhabitants of the United States. The 
eftbrts made to pacify the Indians did not succeed, 
and the nation was led into a long and expensive war 
with them, which continued during a large portion of 
the administration of Washington ; which led to the 
defeat of Generals Harmer and St. Clair, and which 
was only terminated by General Wayne, first by a 
victory, and afterward by a treaty. 

At the opening of the third session of Congress at 
Philadelphia, Washington returned from Mount Ver 



OF GEORGE WASHINGTON. 381 

lion, which he had visited during the recess. Two 
very important measures — the creation of a national 
bank, and the imposition of a tax on the ardent spirits 
distilled in the United States — formed the chief sub- 
jects of discussion during this session. The cabinet 
were divided in reference to a national bank. Jeffer- 
son and Randolph opposed its establishment, because 
they thought it unconstitutional; while Hamilton and 
Knox maintained the opposite position. The opinion 
of each member was given in writing ; and the Pre- 
sident at last affixed his signature to the act by which 
a bank was established, with a capital often millions, 
in which the Government held two millions. The tax 
on distilled spirits was intended to produce a fund for 
the payment of a portion of the domestic debt. It 
encountered much opposition at first, but afterward 
passed, and received the approbation and signature 
of Washington. 



332 THE LIFE AND TIMES 



CHAPTER XXIX. 

APPORTIONMENT BILL DIFFERENCES IN THE CABINET EFFECTS OF 

THE FRENCH REVOLUTION DEVELOPMENT OF PARTIES — THE CITI- 
ZEN GENET — HIS INSOLENCE WESTERN INSURRECTION QUELLED — 

TREATY WITH GREAT BRITAIN THE EXCITEMENT IT PRODUCED 

THE PRESIDENT REFUSES TO GIVE UP THE PAPERS OF INSTRUCTION — 
HIS FAREWELL ADDRESS RETIREMENT FROM OFFICE MOUNT VER- 
NON — DANGER OF A WAR WITH FRANCE WASHINGTON APPOINTED 

COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF PACIFICATION RURAL SCENES LAST ILL- 
NESS AND DEATH OF WASHINGTON. 

During the recess of Congress in March, 1791, 
Washington made a tour through the Southern States, 
and was absent three months. The attention of tho 
next session of the Federal Legislature was occupied 
in enacting laws for the apportionment of reprrsent- 
atives in Congress, in establishing a uniform system 
of militia, and in augmenting the army. On the 
adoption of the Constitution, it had been enacted that 
the whole number of representatives should not ex- 
ceed one for every thirty thousand inhabitants. When 
the new bill was proposed, it was found that a large 
fraction of the citizens would remain unrepresented 
by its operation. To remedy this injustice, a bill was 
introduced fixing the ratio at thirty thousand; making 
this the divisor, and the whole population the divi- 
dend, the quotient would give the entire number of 
representatives. 



OF GEORGE WASHINGTON. 333 

This bill was not in harmony with the Federal 
Constitution, in the opinion of the President; as the 
ratio was meant to apply to each of the States sepa- 
ratel}', and not to the whole aggregate. He returned 
the bill, therefore, unapproved ; and a new one was 
framed and passed, in which the ratio was fixed at 
thirty-three thousand. Local jealousies prevailed to 
a great extent during the discussion on this bill. 
Many wished to have the representation as large as 
possible, in order to increase the influence of the seve- 
ral States, and hold in check the undue power of the 
Executive. The military force which was demanded 
for the protection of the frontiers against the Indians, 
met with opposition on the same grounds ; for by in- 
creasing the executive power it was thought that it 
might tftcome hostile to liberty, and thus the cure be 
worse than the disease ! 

About this time, very clear evidence was given of 
the existence of two hostile parties in Congress ; one 
of which was opposed to, the other in favor of, the 
Administration. It is probable that in all free gov- 
ernments parties must exist, and that their operation is 
not injurious to the preservation of liberty; but in 
the present instance there were some who did not 
favor the Federal Constitution, and would have wholly 
condemned the state of things existing under it. This 
is not the place to discuss the origin from which these 
parties sprang, nor the principles on which they were 
based; but it is very certain that their existence 
greatly grieved, perplexed, and thwarted the patriotic 
purposes of Washington. 

Differences also arose between Hamilton, the Sec- 



334 THE LIFE AND TIMES 

retary of the Treasury, and Jefferson, the Secretary 
of State. These eminent men differed on alnidst 
every subject which was discussed in the Cabinet; 
and they continued to remain diametrically opposite 
in policy and in feeling, till they began to cherish a 
personal hatred toward each other, which nothing 
could eradicate. This antagonism was deeply la- 
mented by Washington, especially as he entertained a 
sincere attachment to both of these men, and believed 
both to be patriotic. Hamilton thought the powers 
of the Constitution were too weak ; and that, in the 
Administration, the greatest possible authority should 
be placed in the hands of the executive. Jefferson con- 
tended that this policy gave too much power to one 
officer; and that the executive authority should be held 
in check, so that the States, in their separate ri^h^s, 
and the people in their liberties, might be free from 
the danger of encroachment. This was the reason 
why he opposed the funding system, the assamption 
of the State debts by the nation, the nalicnai bank, 
and the spirit-tax. 

The conciliating temper of Washington was evinced 
in his letters to these two great men. We introduce 
here an abstract from a communication sent to -.ach 
of tliem; and the feelings which they express conle.? 
as much honor upon their author, as any other por- 
tion of his memorable career. To Jefferson he wrote 
as follows, on the 22d of August, 1792 : " How unfor- 
tunate, and how much to be regretted is it, that, 
while we are encompassed on all sides with avowed 
enemies and insidious friends, internal dissensions 
ohould be harrowing and tearing our vitals! The 



OE GEORaE WASHINGTON. 335 

latter, to me, is the most serious, the most alarming, 
and the most afflicting of the two; and, without 
more charity for the opinions and acts of one another 
in governmental matters, or some more infallible 
criterion by which the truth of speculative opinions, 
before they have undergone the test of experience, 
are to be forejudged, than has yet fallen to the lot of 
fallibility, I believe it will be difficult, if not imprac- 
ticable, to manage the reins of government, or to 
keep the parts of it together; for if, instead of laying 
our shoulders to the machine after measures are de- 
cided on, one pulls this way and another that, before 
the utility of the thing is fairly tried, it must inevi- 
tably be torn asunder; and, in my opinion, the fairest 
prospect of happiness and prosperity that ever was 
presented to man, will be lost perhaps for ever." To 
Hamilton he wrote about the same time, much to the 
saine purpose, and then proceeds thus : " When mat- 
ters get to such lengths, the natural inference is, that 
both sides have strained the cords beyond their bear- 
ing, and that a middle course would be found the 
best, until experience shall have decided on the right 
way, or (which is not to be expected, because it is 
denied to mortals) there shall be some infallible rule 
by which we could forejudge events." 

The term of office prescribed by the Federal Con- 
stitution for the President of the United States, had 
now nearly expired, and great anxiety was felt as to 
whether Washington would be induced to accept a 
re-election. Three members of the cabinet, Jetferson, 
Hamilton, and Randolph, wrote to him, and made 
the urgent request that he should remain in office* 



336 THE LIFE AND TIMES 

another term ; adding, that his own reputation, and 
the present state of the country, required him to do 
80. Washington had indeed intended to retire at 
that time, but had not yet announced the fact; never- 
theless, in consequence of the solicitations of his 
friends, and the unanimous vote of the electors, who 
declared him chosen President a second time, he ac- 
cepted the appointment, and took the oath of office, 
on the 4th of March, 1798. 

The United States and France had preserved the 
most friendly relations, which had extended to their 
commerce. After the downfall of Louis the Six- 
teenth, it was the opinion of the President and his 
Cabinet that the French nation possessed the right to 
adopt whatever form of government they pleased, and 
that other nations should recognize i\\e existing au- 
thority. Mr. Morris, the minister from the United 
States to France, received instructions to that effect; 
and the prudence with which he avoided committing 
his nation, was a cause of dissatisfaction to a certain 
classof political leaders, who pretended that the United 
States exhibited no sympathy with France in the 
attainment of her liberties. War having: been at that 
time declared by France with England, there was an 
apprehension that the country would be embroiled in 
it. But Washington determined to observe the most 
rigid neutrality. With this view he called a meeting 
of his Cabinet on the 18th of April, 1793, and pro- 
posed a series of questions to be answered by them. 
These involved the whole subject then in dispute. 
The Cabinet were of the opinion unanimously that the 
citizens of the United States should be forbidden by 



OF GEORGE WASHINGTON. 337 

proclamation to take any part on the high seas 
against any of the belligerent powers ; and warning 
Ihem against any act not consistent with the conduct 
of a friendly nation. It was also agreed, that the 
ministers of the French Republic should be received. 
The President required each member of his Cabinet 
to put his opinion in writing, and he then gave it the 
most studious attention. The result was the issuing 
of a proclamation of neutrality, by which our inter- 
course with foreign nations was to be regulated. The 
United States being saved from the vortex into which 
a foreign war would have plunged them, were thus 
able, through the prudence and political sagacity of 
Washington, to lay the broad and deep foundations 
of the national prosperity. 

This was one of the most important events con- 
nected with Washington's administration ; and we 
cannot wonder at the excitement which it produced, 
and the hostility which it generated. It developed 
the principles then already at work, and brought into 
bold outline the two parties known as the Federal 
and the Democratic. The former of these were 
thought to be the partisans of England ; while the 
latter were stigmatized as the abettors of the horrors 
of the French Revolution. The President was able to 
keep aloof from this rivalry for some time ; but the 
opposers of his administration knew that, as long as 
his character remained superior to calumny, their 
labors would be vain. Attempts were therefore made 
at this time to asperse it. 

From the extravagant attention which had been 
paid to the citizen Genet, who came to the United 
29 w 



338 THE LIFE AND TIMES 

Stales as minister of the French Hepublic, we may 
judge of the sympathy which the American people 
entertained for the French Revolution. This indi- 
vidual, with the greatest professions of amity for the 
United States on the part of his Government, had 
obtained private orders and blank commissions, by 
which he could appoint privateers who eaptared 
British vessels, and then brought them into American 
ports. The British minister complained of this abuse, 
and demanded restitution. There was but one opi- 
nion about the matter in the Cabinet of "Washington, 
which condemned it as such a violation of neutrality 
as must be prevented by the American Government. 
It was resolved, therefore, that no privateers thus 
fitted out should be harbored in American ports ; and 
that the custom-house officers should keep a vigilant 
watch upon violators of the law. It was also agreed 
that in case the property seized was not restored by 
the captors to the owners, the Government should 
make indemnification. Genet was inflamed with in- 
dignation at these proceedings; he became extremely 
insolent, and continued to encourage armed vessels to 
sail from American ports under the French flag. He 
found, however, that the President would not permit 
him to proceed as he wished ; and then his insolent 
rage exceeded all bounds. He became so infatuated 
and infuriated as to accuse Washington of having 
usurped the powers that belonged alone to Congress; 
and declared his intention of appealing to the people. 
His preposterous conduct, however, availed nothing, 
and on representation being made to the French 
Government, he was recalled. One of his projects 



OF GEORGE WASHINGTON. 339 

was the establishment of Democratic clubs through- 
out the country. The first of these was instituted in 
Philadelphia after the model of the Jacobin clubs in 
France. 

That the American people suffered so little injury 
from the baleful influences of the French Revolution, 
and from the principles which it disseminated, was 
owing to the practical sense and prudence of the people 
on the one hand, and to the firmness and wisdom of 
Washington on the other. It seems, indeed, impossi- 
ble that the country could have escaped untold evils 
under the circumstances, had there not been the strict- 
est neutrality enforced. Yet at that verj^ time the Cabi- 
net was full of dissention ; the people were tainted to 
some degree with French principles ; and in a divided 
Congress, amid the bitter strife of parties, and the ex- 
travagant misrepresentations of the press, many per- 
sons thought there was evinced a tendency to the es- 
tablishment of a monarchy. General Knox on one 
occasion showed the President a specimen of the 
printed libels which were then circulated; and among 
them, a pasquinade called "the funeral of George 
Washington," in which he was represented on a guil- 
lotine. The President burst forth into one of those 
transports of passion which were beyond his control ; 
inveighed against the personal abuse that had been 
heaped upon him, and defied any man on earth to 
produce a single act of his since he had been in the 
Government, that had not been done from the purest 
motives. He had never repented but once the havin^ 
slipped the opportunity of resigning his oflace, and that 
was every moment since. In the agony of his heart 



340 THE LIFE AND TIMES 

he declared he -vvonld rather be in the grave than in 
his present situation ; that he would rather be on his 
farm than be made emperor of the world ; and yet, 
said he, indignantly, they are charging me with want- 
ing to be a king ! 

Affairs with Great Britain were at that time in a 
complicated condition. Mr. Hammond was then the 
resident British Minister, and Thomas Pinckney was 
Minister Plenipotentiary of the United States at the 
Court of St. James. The British still held the fron- 
tier posts, and British officers had recently impressed 
seamen within the jurisdiction of the United States. 
The orders in council gave instruction to British 
cruisers to board all ships laden with corn-meal or 
flour, bound for any French port; and ships of war 
were directed to detain all vessels carrying goods pro 
duced in any colony that belonged to France. Neu- 
tral rights were thus invaded, and this injustice caused 
remonstrances to be made which were injurious in 
their effects. Congress assembled on December 3d, 
1793, and the President explained the reasons for the 
course he had adopted with foreign powers. He offered 
suggestions by which the rights of American citizens 
should be protected; and recommended not only that 
the country should be placed in a position to protect 
its citizens, but also to enforce its just claims. 

In order to prevent hostilities, John Jay had been 
Bent as envoy extraordinary to the Court of St. James. 
It was hoped that no conflict between the two nations 
might occur, but it was agreed to put the country into 
an efficient state of defence, by the fortification of 
the harbors, and by holding eighty thousand militia 



OF GEORGE WASHINGTON. 341 

in a state of readiness for service. Additional taxes 
were imposed, and additional galleys were purchased; 
while the duty on the importation of arms was re- 
moved. This session of Congress was protracted, and 
its discussions stormy; but the administration of 
Washington stood unflinchingly to its duty, and car- 
ried out the views that animated it. In the ensuing 
winter, M. Fouchet arrived as French Minister to the 
United States; and Mr. Morris being recalled, Mr. 
Monroe, an opponent to the Administration, was 
chosen to succeed him. 

Soon after the adjournment of Congress, an insur- 
rection broke forth in Western Pennsylvania, in con- 
sequence of a duty imposed on distilled liquors. The 
law was openly resisted, and the revenue inspectors 
threatened with personal violence if they attempted 
to discharge their duty. The discontent had pro- 
ceeded so far that a proclamation was issued, warning 
all persons to avoid a combination with the dis- 
aflected, and calling on all magistrates to execute the 
laws, and bring offenders to justice. The marshal, in 
serving bills of indictment against several offenders, 
was seized and maltreated ; and at length the evil 
had spread so far as to assume a most serious and 
threatening aspect. The President waited to ascer 
tain whether the insurrection would be quelled with 
out the use of arms ; and then determined to exer- 
cise his authority and put it down by force. He 
issued a proclamation on the 7th of August, 1794, 
and made a requisition for militia on the Governors 
of New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Maryland, and Vir- 
ginia. Twelve thousand men were ordered out, and 
29* 



842 THE LIFE AND TIMES 

the number was afterward increased to sixteen thou- 
sand. The Governors of Pennsylvania and New Jer- 
Bey were appointed to command the militia of those 
States; and the command of the whole was given to 
Governor Lee of Virginia. Bedford was the ap- 
pointed place of rendezvous, while that of the Virgi- 
nia and Maryland militia was at Cumberland, where 
"Will's Creek unites with the Potomac. The Presi- 
dent accompanied the Secretary of War to both these 
places, and inspected the troops. He ordered each 
division to march across the Allegheny Mountains, 
and act against the insurgents as necessit}^ might dic- 
tate. He saw from personal examination that every- 
thing was ready, gave his written directions to Gene- 
ral Lee, and then returned to Philadelphia, where he 
arrived after four Aveeks' absence. The disaffected 
were eventually put down without the effusion of 
blood. 

Before the end of the ensuing session General 
Hamilton, who had found the salary of his office in- 
adequate to the support of his family, resigned, and 
was succeeded by Oliver Wolcott; General Knox 
was, at the same time, succeeded in the war depart- 
ment by Timothy Pickering. The treaty with Great 
Britain which Mr. Jay had negotiated, arrived in 
March, and the President summoned the Senate to 
consider its provisions. The President was of opinion 
that, when taken altogether, it was the best that 
could have been obtained under the circumstances. 
He had given it the most careful scrutiny, and 
found it in some respects defective; but, on the 
whole, he regarded it of the utmost utility to the 



OF GEORGE WASHINGTON. 343 

uatiou. He determined to affix his signature to it, 
in case the Senate gave it their approval, which was 
necessary according to the provisions of the Constitu- 
tion. The Senate convened in June ; and after the 
discussions of a fortnight, they advised that the treaty 
be ratified, with the exception of a single article, 
which allowed trade to be carried on between the 
United States and the West Indies in vessels of 
seventy tons, conveying the produce of the United 
States or of the Islands ; but forbidding the transpor- 
tation in American vessels, either from the United 
States or the Islands, of molasses, sugar, coffee, cocoa, 
or cotton. 

Washington determined to ratify the treaty by 
affixing thereto his signature ; and to accompany it 
with a memorial against the article in question. 
Meanwhile a member of the Senate had given to the 
editor of a newspaper a copy of the treaty ; and thu6 
it clandestinely came before the public, met with the 
greatest criticism and condemnation, and threw the 
nation into the most furious excitement. Washing- 
ton stood firm in his position, though assailed by the 
resolves of meetings, by aspersions on his character, 
and by the vilest abuse which was ever heaped upon 
the head of a patriot. He signed the treaty, and soon 
the provisional order was repealed ; and the country 
was not only saved from war, but was blessed with 
unexampled prosperity. 

The day after Washington affixed his name to this 
memorable treaty, Mr. Randolph resigned his post as 
Secretary of State, in consequence of an intercepted 
letter of M. Fouchet to the French Government. 



344 THE LIFE AND TIMES 

which excited suspicion in reference to his conduct 
He had received the letter from the hand of Wash* 
ington in the presence of other members of the Cabi- 
net, and before them had been asked for an expla- 
'nation. He became offended, and resigned his office 
on the same day. 

Afiiairs with foreign nations afterward became 
more promising in their aspect. A treaty with Al- 
giers led to the liberation of American prisoners; 
and another with Spain opened the navigation of the 
Mississippi. These things were subjects of congratu- 
lation to Congress, when the President addressed 
them on the opening of the session of 1796. The 
subject of the treaty with Great Britain again came 
up for discussion, and when presented to Congress as 
ratified by the monarch of that country, a determi 
nation became apparent to refuse the enactment of 
those laws by which only it could be carried into 
effect. The instructions given to Mr. Jay, and other 
documents, were asked by the House of Representa- 
tives, which the President thought he had no right 
to grant; and therefore he firmly declined to comply 
with the requisition. The members of the House 
were greatly disappointed and dissatisfied ; party 
spirit ran high ; the subject of the refusal was fiercely 
debated on both sides ; but in the end the necessary 
laws were enacted for the fulfilment of the treaty. 

The second term of the presidency of Washingtor 
now approached its termination ; and it M'as clearly 
understood that he would not again accept the office. 
He made an announcement of this fact at an early 
day, in order that a successor might be appointed, 



OF GEORGE WASHINGTON. 345 

nvJi on the 15th. of September, six mouths before the 
expuation of his office, he delivered his Farewell Ad- 
dress to the people of the United States. The dif 
ferent States testified the value which they attached 
to it, by causing it to be printed and published with 
the laws enacted by their legislatures. "Washington 
met the two Houses in December, 1796, for the last 
time ; and among the important counsels which he 
gave them were measures for the increase of the 
navy, the encouragement of agriculture and manufac- 
tures, the institution of a national university, and the 
establishment of a military academy. He delivered a 
separate message in reference to the relations with 
France. His views may be seen by a brief extract 
from his speech : " The situation in which I now 
stand, for the last time, in the midst of the represen- 
tatives of the people of the United States, naturally 
recalls the period when the administration of the pre- 
sent form of government commenced; and I cannot 
omit the occasion to congratulate you and my coun- 
try on the success of the experiment, nor to repeat 
my fervent supplications to the Supreme Ruler of the 
universe, and Sovereign Arbiter of nations, that his 
providential care may still be extended to the United 
States." 

The French Directory labored, at this period, 
under the erroneous impression that the people of 
the United States would not support their Government ; 
and this was confirmed by the reception which the 
British treaty had received. They therefore behaved 
with insolence, and rejected the overtures made to 
them; they still committed depredations on Ameri- 



346 THE LIFE AND TIMES 

can commerce by means of French cruisers ; and 
having first insulted the American plenipotentiary, 
then ordered him to leave the territories of the Re- 
public. War therefore was the only alternative, and 
Congress authorized the President to raise an army 
of ten thousand men. Washington, who had retired 
to the grateful shades of Mount Vernon, was nomi- 
nated to take the chief command ; but he accepted 
the trust only in case of an actual invasion. He set 
about organizing the army, in order to be prepared 
for every event ; and in doing so was much embar 
rassed in regard to the appointment of officers. The 
second in command was to be the inspector-general, 
according to the appointment tendered to Washing- 
ton, who had given the President to understand that 
he must be allowed to choose his subordinates. Alexan- 
der Hamilton was accordingly appointed to that office ; 
while Charles Cotesworth Pinckney and Henry Knox 
were major-generals. This arrangement oft'ended 
Knox, who thought his services deserved the first 
place. The details of the new army engaged much 
of the time and attention of Washington ; and his 
exertions and correspondence, which were immense, 
clearly evinced that growing years had not diminished 
his zeal or impaired his faculties. He spent a month 
in Philadelphia with his generals, engaged in the 
organization of the army: in the meanwhile tliL! 
Prench, seeing the hostile attitude assumed by the 
XTnited States, with Washington prepared to lead their 
forces, moderated their demands ; and Bonaparte 
being placed at the head of the Republic, peuce was 
eventually proclaimed on equitable terms. 



OF GEORGE WASHINGTON. 347 

Washington would liave greatly rejoiced at the 
attainment of this result; but before the welcome newa 
arrived he was no more. His health had remained ex- 
cellent and unimpaired after his retirement, allowance 
being made for the infirmities incident to his ad- 
vanced age. He was then in his sixty-seventh year, 
and capable of enduring great fatigue. Indeed his daily 
labors, both physically or mentally, were performed 
with undiminished ease and vigor ; and he might be 
regarded as one who bade fair to live to extreme old 
age. On the 12th of December, 1799, he spent seve- 
ral hours on horseback, riding over his farms, and 
directing his superintendent. The day was incle- 
ment ; he was exposed to the rain and sleet, and be- 
came chilled and wet. He apprehended no danger ; 
but the next day being snowy, he did not go abroad, 
except for a very short time. He soon experienced 
symptoms of a sore throat, yet he did not pay much 
heed to it; and in the evening, though hoarse, he sat 
with his family by the iireside, and read aloud from 
the newspapers which were brought in. He con- 
versed cheerfully also, and retired to rest at his usual 
hour. He was seized with ague during the night, 
and spoke with a great deal of difficulty. On the 
next day one of his overseers bled him, but was so 
much agitated that the general told him " not to be 
afraid." The incision was made, and the patient 
remarked that "the orifice is not larsre enoui^h." 
The blood, however, ran pretty freely ; but Mrs. 
Washington directed the operator to stop it. There 
were about fourteen ounces taken ; yet the general 
Buid, as well as he could, "more, more." Kxteruul 



348 THE LIFE AND TIMES 

remedies were applied to the throat, but they gave him 
no relief. Dr. Craik, the family physician, and two 
others, arrived about nine o'clock. Every possible re- 
medy was then used, but to no purpose. Mrs. Wash- 
ington was desired to come to his chamber about four 
o'clock; and he gave her his key, with directions to go 
to his room and apply it to the desk, where she would 
find two wills, one of which had superseded the other. 
He was then in perfect possession of his faculties, 
conversed with his friends as well as the nature of 
the disease would permit, and anticipated his end 
with the fortitude of a Christian hero. He suftered 
intense pain with the utmost patience and fortitude ; 
and he sank by degrees until about eleven o'clock on 
the ensuing night, when he peacefully expired. 



OF GEORGE WASHINGTOlTo 849 



CHAPTER XXX. 

PROFOUND IMPRESSION PRODUCED BY WASHINGTON'S DEATH — ESTIMATE 

OF HIS CHARACTER — HIS INTELLECTUAL QUALITIES HIS MILITARY 

TALENTS — HIS ADMINISTRATIVE ABILITIES HIS CHARACTER WHEN 

REGARDED AS A WHOLE — PROCEEDINGS IN CONGRESS IN HONOR OF 

HIS MEMORY REMARKS OF MR. MARSHALL — RESOLUTIONS ADDRESS 

OF THE SENATE REPLY OF THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES 

FUNERAL SERVICES AT MOUNT VERNON. 

Thus ended the memorable career of George "Wash- 
ington. The report of his sudden death threw a pall 
of sadness and unparalleled gloom over the whole 
nation. A grief so intense that no language could 
render fit utterance to it, pervaded the hearts of 
myriads ; and never before or since has the departure 
of any public man, in this Confederacy, produced so 
profound and so lasting an impression. When the 
mournful intelligence was communicated to Congress, 
they unanimously passed such resolutions as were 
suitable to the occasion, and adopted all other appro- 
priate signs of appreciation and respect in honor of 
the illustrious dead, who had assumed the first and 
highest place in the afl:ections of his countrymen. 

The personal qualities of this illustrious man have 
80 often been delineated, that it seems almost a super- 
fluous task to attempt a description of them. His 
best and most accurate portrait is to be derived from 
30 



8u0 THE LIFE AND TIMES 

the examination of the actions whicli he performed, 
and of the results whicli he accomplished. The in- 
tellectual character of "Washington was peculiar. 
Though he became the triumphant hero of a long 
and arduous war, his military talents were not of the 
highest order. In this respect he was inferior to 
many men who, in the career of arms, have achieved 
far less renown than he. He possessed little power 
of strategy, little of that promptness and intuitive 
sagacity which enables a commander to adapt himself 
to the sudden and unexpected emergencies which 
occur in the crises of great engagements. In this 
respect, if his plan of battle was once deranged by 
unforeseen accidents, he was unable to readjust the 
machinery of his army, or to confront and confound 
the operations of the foe by new and instantaneous 
combinations adapted to the emergenc3^ In this re- 
spect Marlborough, Saxe, Prince Eugene, Frederick 
the Great, Napoleon, were all infinitely his superiors. 
The c\\\e^ military ability of Washington consisted 
in the prudence and skill w^ith which he adjusted the 
details of an assault on an enemy who was posted in 
a firm position ; and the energy and perseverance 
with which he persisted in the subsequent attack. 
Thus he was triumphant over the British at Boston 
and Yorktown, and achieved brilliant successes there, 
because he was enabled to prepare his plans of attack, 
and to adhere to them, without the possibility of 
having them disarranged by sudden and unforeseen 
movements of the enemy. His personal bravery was 
unquestionable; and he faced danger and death with 
the most perfect fortitude and indifference, when 



, OF GEORGE WASHINGTON. 351 

honor and duty required him so to do. His most 
prominent characteristic as a military commander, 
was his prudence; and it is probable that this solid 
quality was more available, under the existing cir. 
cumstances, in weakening the foe by long delays, by 
harassing evasions, by cautious postponements of deci- 
sive actions, than by those more brilliant and showy 
talents which would have risked the fate of vast and 
important interests upon the issue of a few rash and 
imprudent conflicts. 

A prominent element in the greatness of Washing- 
ton consisted in the fact that, with respectable mili- 
tary talents, he combined far higher and greater abili- 
ties for the administration of government. He was 
placed at the head of this Confederacy at the most 
difficult and perilous period of its past career; when 
a thousand hostile and rival interests among tho 
States, and between the separate States and the Fede- 
ral Government, and between the Federal Govern- 
ment and the continental troops, and between several 
political factions in the Government, rendered it im- 
possible so to steer as fully to meet the views and sat- 
isfy the demands of all parties. Yet that result was 
attained by Washington in a remarkable degree ; and 
when, after an administration of eight eventful years, 
he retired from the Presidency, he left the Republic 
in a compact and united condition; the community ut 
large flourishing and prosperous ; and their reputa- 
tion among foreign nations as a young and vigorous 
empire, unspotted, greatly respected, and destined to 
achieve with the lapse of time, a high and glorious 



352 THE LIFE AND TIMES 

position among the oldest communities on tLe globo 
The triumphs of Washington as a civil and executive 
oiBcer were far more honorable than even those at- 
tained by him on the battle-field. 

Taken as a whole, therefore, his character was one 
of the most remarkable and estimable that ever ex- 
isted among men. His predominating political attri- 
bute was Patriotism. His leading intellectual faculty 
was Sagacity. His chief social characteristics were 
Prudence and Self-control. His prominent moral 
qualities were Honesty and Conscientiousness. And 
all the several parts of his nature were combined 
together and proportioned in so admirable and equi- 
table a measure, that he constituted a grand and 
harmonious Whole, such as is rarely exhibited in the 
chequered annals of this world's history. Many great 
and illustrious men have equalled George Washing- 
ton in some one or other single quality; but scarcely 
any man of ancient or modern times possessed a 
mental and moral constitution of such admirable pro- 
portions, or of such beautiful, complete, and uniform 
development. Nature formed him truly great ; but the 
peculiar circumstances in which he was placed — first 
of war and then of peace — conspired to render him, 
as possessing such faculties, greater still ; until his 
position became at length firmly fixed among the few 
mortals whose majestic forms loom up sublimely 
through all times and ages, as specimens of spotless, 
peerless, and almost perfect Humanity. 

When the intelligence of Washington's death wag 
formally announced to Congress, Mr. John Marshall 



OF GEORGE WASHINGTON. 35S 

arose and delivered the following brief but appro- 
priate remarks : * 

"The melancholy event which was yesterday an- 
nounced, without doubt has been rendered but too 
certain. Our "Washington is no more ! The hero, 
the sage, and the patriot of America — the man on 
whom, in times of danger, every eye was turned and 
all hopes were placed, lives now only in his own great 
actions, and in the hearts of an aflectionate and af- 
flicted people. 

"If, sir, it had not been usual openly to testify 
respect for the memory of those whom heaven had 
selected as its intruments for dispensing good to man; 
yet, such has been the uncommon worth, and such 
the extraordinary incidents which have marked the 
life of him whose loss we all deplore, that the whole 
American nation, impelled by the same feelings, 
would call with one voice for a public manifestation 
of that sorrow which is so deep and so universal. 

" More than any other individual, and as much as 
to one individual was possible, has he contributed to 
found this our wide-spreading empire, and to give to 
the western world its independence and its freedom. 
Having effected the great object for which he was 
placed at the head of our armies, we have seen him 
convert the sword into the ploughshare, and volunta- 
rily sink the soldier in the citizen. 

"When the debility of our federal system had be- 

* The ensuing details respecting the proceedings in Congress 
in reference to the death of Washington, and the obsequies at 
Mount Vernon, are derived from the Ulster County Gazette, N. Y., 
of January iih, 1800. 

30* X 



864 THE LIFE AND TIMES 

come manifest, and the bonds whicti connected the 
parts of this vast continent were dissolving, we have 
seen him the chief of those patriots who formed for 
us a Constitution which, by preserving the Union, 
will, I trust, substantiate and perpetuate those bless- 
ings our Revolution had promised to bestow. 

" In obedience to the general voice of his country, 
calling on him to preside over a great people, we have 
seen him once more quit the retirement he loved, and 
in a season more stormy and tempestuous than war 
itself, with calm and wise determination pursue the 
true interests of the nation, and contribute, more 
than any other could contribute, to the establishment 
of that system of policy which will, I trust, yet pre- 
serve our peace, our honor, and our independence. 
Having been twice unanimously chosen the Chief 
Magistrate of a free people, we see him, at a time 
when his re-election with the universal suffrage could 
not have been doubted, affording the world a rare 
instance of moderation, by withdrawing from his 
high station to the peaceful walks of private life. 

"However public confidence may change and the 
public affections fluctuate with respect to others, yet 
with respect to him they have, in war and in peace, 
in public and in private life, been as steady as his 
own firm mind, and as constant as his own exalted 
virtues. 

"Let us, then, Mr. Speaker, pay the last tribute of 
respect and afiection to our departed friend. Let the 
grand council of the nation display those sentiments 
which the nation feels. 

♦'For this purpose, I hold in my hand some reso- 



OF GEORGE WASHINGTON. 355 

lutioiis, which I will take the liberty to offer to the 
Mouse : 

" ' Resolved, That this House will wait on the Presi- 
dent of the United States, in condolence of this 
mournful event. 

" 'Resolved, That the Speaker's chair be shrouded 
with black, and that the Members and Officers of the 
House wear black during the session. 

" ' Resolved, That a committee, in conjunction with 
one from the Senate, be appointed to consider on the 
most suitable manner of pajnng honor to the memory 
of the man, first in war, first in peace, and first in the 
hearts of his countrymen. 

" ' Resolved, That this House, when it adjourns, do 
adjourn to Monday.' 

"These resolutions were unanimously agreed to. 
Sixteen members were appointed on the third reso- 
lution. 

" Generals Marshall and Smith were then appointed 
to wait on the President, to know at what time it 
would be convenient to receive the House. 

" Generals Marshall and Smith having waited on 
the President with the first resolution, reported, that 
the President w^ould be ready to receive them at 1 
o'clock this day. The house accordingly waited on 
him. 

" The Speaker then addressed the President in the 
following words : 

"Sir: — The House of Representatives, penetrated 
with a sense of the irreparable loss sustained by the 
nation, by the death of that great and good man, the 



356 THE LIFE AND TIMES 

illustrioas and beloved Washington, wait on yon, sir, 
to express their condolence on this melancholy and 
distressing event." 

"To which the President made the following 
r^ply : 

" Gentlemen of the Souse of Representatives : 

"I receive with great respect and affection the con- 
dolence of the House of Representatives on the 
melancholy and afflicting event in the death of the 
most illustrious and beloved personage which this 
country ever produced. I sympathize with you — 
with the nation, and with good men through the 
■ world, in this irreparable loss sustained by us all. 

John Adams." 

"A message was received from the Senate, inform- 
ing the House that they had agreed to the appoint- 
ment of a joint committee, to consider a suitable 
manner of paying honor to the memory of the man, 
first in war, first in peace, and first in the hearts of 
his country, and that they had appointed even mem- 
bers to join a committee for that purpose. 

" To the President of the United States : 

" The Senate of the United States respectfully take 
leave, sir, to express to you their deep regret for the 
loss their country has sustained in the death of Gene- 
ral George Washington. This event, so distressing 
to all our fellow-citizens, must be peculiarly heav}^ to 
you, who have long been associated with him in deeds 



OF GEORGE WASHINGTON. 357 

of patriotism. Permit us, sir, to mingle our tears 
with yours : on this occasion it is manly to weep. To 
lose such a man at such a crisis, is no common cala- 
mity to the world : our country mourns her Father. 
The Almighty Disposer of human events has taken 
from us our greatest Benefactor and ornament. It 
becomes us to submit with reverence to him, who 
' maketh darkness his Pavilion.* 

" With patriotic pride, we review the life of our 
Washington, and compare him with those of other 
countries who have been pre-eminent in fame. An- 
cient and modern names are diminished before him. 
Greatness and guilt have too often been allied, but 
his fame is whiter than it is brilliant. The destroyers 
of nations stood abashed at the majesty of his virtue. 
It reproved the intemperate of their ambition, and 
darkened the splendor of victory. The scenes closed, 
and we are no longer anxious lest misfortune should 
sully his glory ; he has travelled on to the end of his 
journey, and carried with him an increasing weight 
of honor; he has deposited it safely, where misfor- 
tune cannot tarnish it — where malice cannot blast it. 
Favored of Heaven, he departed without exhibiting 
the weakness of humanity ; magnanimous in death, 
the darkness of the grave could not obscure his 
brightness. 

" Such was the man whom we deplore. Thanks to 
God, his glory is consummated. Washington yet 
lives on earth in his spotless example — his spirit ia 
in Heaven. 

" Let his countrymen consecrate the memory of the 
heroic General, the patriotic Statesman, and the vir- 



358 THE LIFE AND TIMES 

tiious Sage; let them teach their children never to 
forget that the fruits of his labors, and his example, 
are their inheritance." 

To this address the President returned the follow- 
ing reply : 

" Gentlemen of the Senate : 

"I receive with the most respectful and affectionate 
sentiments, in this impressive address, the obliging 
expressions of j'our regret, for the loss our Country 
has sustained in the death of her most esteemed, be- 
loved, and admired Citizen. 

" In the multitude of my thoughts and recollections, 
on this melanelioly event, you will permit me only to 
say, that I have seen him in the days of Adversity, 
in some of the scenes of his deepest and most trying 
perplexities ; I have also attended him in his highest 
elevation and most prosperous felicit}' ; with uniform 
admiration of his wisdom, moderation, and con- 
stancy. 

"Among all our original associates, in the memo- 
rable League of the Continent in 1774, which first 
expressed the sovereign will of a Free Nation in 
America, he was the only one remaining in the 
General Government. Although, with a constitution 
more enfeebled than his, at an age when he thought 
it necessary to prepare for retirement, I feel myself 
alone, bereaved of my last brother; yet I derive 
Btrong consolation from the unanimous disposition, 
which appears in all ages and classes, to mingle their 



OF GEORGE WASHINGTON. 35S 

sorrows with mine, on this common calamity to the 
world. 

" The life of our Washington cannot suffer by a 
comparison with those of other countries, who ha\e 
been most celebrated and exalted by Fame. The 
attributes and decorations of Royalty could only have 
served to eclipse the Majesty of those virtues, which 
made him, from being a modest citizen, a more re- 
splendent luminary. Misfortune, had he lived, could 
hereafter have sullied his glory only with those super- 
ficial minds, who, believing that character and actions 
are marked by success alone, rarely deserves to enjoy 
it. Malice could never blast his honor, and Unvy 
made him a singular exception to her universal rule. 
For himself he had lived enough, to life and to glory. 
For his fellow-citizens, if their prayers could have 
been answered, he would have been immortal. For 
me his departure is at a most unfortunate moment. 
Trusting, however, in the wise and righteous domi- 
nions of Providence over passions of men, and the 
result of their councils and actions, as well as over 
their Lives, nothing remains for me but humblk 

RESIGNATION. 

"His example is now complete, and it will teach 
wisdom and virtue to Magistrates, Citizens, and men, 
not only in the present age, but in future generations, 
as long as our History shall be read. If a Trajan 
found a Pliny, a Marcus Aurelius can never want 
Biographers, Eulogists, or Historians." 

The ceremonies with which the "Father of his 
Country" was entombed at Mount Vernon, were 



360 THE LIFE AND TIMES 

simple and impressive. The following description of 
the solemn scene was written by an eye witness, 
dated at Georgetown, the 20th of December, 1800 : 

" On "Wednesday last, the mortal part of Wash- 
ington the Great — the Father of his Country and tlio 
Friend of man, was consigned to the tomb, with 
solemn honors and funeral pomp. 

"A multitude of persons assembled, from many 
miles round, at Mount Vernon, the choice abode and 
last residence of the illustrious chief. There were 
the groves — the spacious avenues, the beautiful and 
sublime scenes, the noble mansion — but alas! the 
august inhabitant was now no more. That great soul 
was gone. His mortal part was there indeed ; but 
ah! how aflecting! how awful the spectacle of «neh 
worth and greatness, thus, to mortal eyes fallen '. — 
Yes! fallen! fallen! 

"In the long and lofty Portico, where oft the Hero 
walked in all his glory, notv lay the shrouded corpse. 
The countenance still composed and serene, seemed 
to be impressed with the dignity of the spirit, which 
lately dwelt in that lifeless form. There those who 
paid the last sad honors to the benefactor of his 
country, took an impressive — a farewell view. 

" On the ornament, at the head of the coffin, waa 
inscribed Surge ad Judicium — about the middle of 
the coffin, gloria dec — and on the silver plate, 

GENERAL 
GEORGE WASHINGTON, 

DEPARTED THIS LIFE, ON THR 14tH DECEMBER, 

1799, Mt 68. 



OF GEORGE WASHINGTON. 



361 



"Between three and four o'clock, the sound of 
artillery from a vessel in the river firing minute guns, 
awoke afresh our solemn sorrow — the corpse was 
moved — a band of music with mournful melody 
melted the soul into all the tenderness of woe. 

"The procession was formed and moved on in the 
followino; order: 



With arms reversed. 



Cavalry, 

Infantry, 

Guard, 

Music, 

Clergy. 

"The General's horse, with his saddle, holsters, 
and pistols. 



Cols. 
Simms, 
Ramsay, 
Payne, 



C3 
O 



e3 



m 

PLH 
P5 
O 

Q 



C3 



c3 



Cols. 
Gilpin, 
Marsteller, 
Little. 



Mourners, 
Masonic Brethren, 
Citizens. 



" When the Procession had arrived at the bottom 
of the elevated lawn, on the banks of the Potomac, 
where the family vault is placed, the cavalry halted, 
the infantry marched towards the Mount and formed 
their lines — the Clergy, the Masonic Brothers, and 
the Citizens, descended to the Vault, and the funeral 
eervice of the Church was performed 
31 



The firing 



362 THE LIFE OF WASHINGTON. 

was repeated from the vessel in the river, and the 
sounds echoed from the woods and hills around. 

" Three general discharges by the infantry, the 
cavalry, and eleven pieces of artillery, which lined 
the banks of the Potomac back of the A^ault, paid 
the last tribute to the entombed Commander-in-Chief 
of the Armies of the United States, and to the de- 
parted Hero." 



A PPENDIX.* 



I. 

WASHINGTON'S FAREWELL ADDRESS. 

Friends, and Fellow-Citizens: 

The period for a new election of a Citizen, to ad- 
minister the Executive Government of the United 
States, being not far distant, and the time actually 
arrived, when your thoughts must be employed in 
designating the person who is to be clothed with that 
important trust [^] it appears to me proper, especially 
as it may conduce to a more distinct expression of 
the public voice, that I should now apprise you of 
the resolution I have formed, to decline being con- 
sidered among the number of those, out of whom a 
choice is to be made. 

I beg you, at the same time, to do me the justice 
to be assured, that this resolution has not been taken, 
without a strict regard to all the considerations apper- 

' The foot-notes which are here introduced, contain those altera- 
tions and interlineations which were found in the manuscript copy 
sent to the printer by Washington. The contents of this Appen- 
dix are reprinted from the valuable work issued by James Lenox, 
Esq., of New York, in 1850. 

' for another term. 

( 363 ) 



86-1 APPENDIX. 

tainino: to the relation, which hinds a dutiful citizen 
to his country — and that, in withdrawing the tender 
of service which silence in ray situation might imply, 
I am influenced by no diminution of zeal for your 
future interest, no deficiency of grateful respect for 
your past kindness; but [am supported by]' a full 
conviction that the step is compatible with both. 

The acceptance of, and continuance hitherto in, the 
office to which your suffrages have twice called me, 
have been a uniform sacrifice of inclination to the 
opinion of duty, and to a deference for what appeared 
to be your desire. — I constantly hoped, that it would 
have been much earlier in my power, consistently with 
motives, which I was not at liberty to disregard, to 
return to that retirement, from which I bad been re- 
luctantly drawn. The strength of my inclination 

to do this, previous to the last election, had even led 
to the preparation of an address to declare it to you : 
but mature reflection on the then perplexed and critical 
posture of our affairs with foreign Nations, and the 
unanimous advice of persons entitled to my confi- 
dence, impelled me to abandon the idea. 

I rejoice that the state of your concerns, external 
as well as internal, no longer renders the pursuit of 
inclination incompatible with the sentiment of duty, 
or propriety; and [am persuaded]^ whatever partiality 
[may be retained]^ for my services, [that]'' in the pro- 
sent circumstances of our country [you] will not dis- 
approve my determination to retire. 

The impressions, [vvith]^ which, I first [under- 

• act under " that 

' any portion of you may yet retain * even they ' undei 



FAREWELL ADDRESS. 365 

took] ' the arduous trust, were explained on the pro- 
per occasion. — In the discharge of this trust, I will 
only say, that I have, with good intentions, contri- 
buted [towards]^ the organization and administration 
of the government, the best exertions of which a very 
fallible judgment was capable — Not unconscious, in 
the outset, of the inferiority of my qualifications, ex- 
perience in my own eyes, [perhaps] still more in the 
eyes of others, has [strengthened]^ the motives to dif- 
fidence of myself; and every day the increasing 
weight of years admonishes me more and more, that 
the shade of retirement is as necessary to me as it 
will be welcome. — Satisfied that if any circumstances 
have given peculiar value to my services, they were 
temporary, I have the consolation to believe, that 
while choice and prudence invite me to quit the poli- 
tical scene, patriotism does not forbid it. [*] 

In looking forward to the moment, which is [in- 
tended] to terminate the career of my public life, my 
feelings do not permit me to suspend the deep ac- 
knowledgment [of]^ that debt of gratitude which I 

' accepted 'to ' not lessened 

* May I also have that of knowing in my retreat, that the invo- 
luntary errors, I have probably committed, have been the sources 
of no serious or lasting mischief to our country. I may then ex- 
pect to realize, without alloy, the sweet enjoyment of partaking, in 
the midst of my fellow-citizens, the benign influence of good laws 
under a free government; the ever favorite object of my heart, 
and the happy reward, I trust, of our mutual cares dangers and 
labours. 

In the margin opposite this paragraph is the following note in 
Washington's Autograph also erased, "obliterated to avoid tUw 
imputation of affected modesty." 

* demanded by 

31* 



SQ6 APPENDIX. 

owe to my beloved country, — for the many honors it 
has conferred upon me ; still more for the stedfast 
confidence with which it has supported me : and for 
the opportunities I have thence enjoyed of manifest- 
ing my inviolable attachment, by services faithful 
and persevering, though [in usefulness unequal]' to 
my zeal. — If benefits have resulted to our country 
from these services, let it always be remembered to 
your praise, and as an instructive example in our 
annals, that, [^] under circumstances in which the 
Passions agitated in every direction were liable to 
[mislead],^ amidst appearances sometimes dubious, — ■ 
vicissitudes of fortune often discouraging, — in situa- 
tions in which not unfrequently want of success hag 
countenanced the spirit of criticism [the constancy 
of your support] was the essential prop of the eflbrta 
and [a]* guarantee of the plans by which they were 
eftected. — Profoundly penetrated with this idea, I 
shall carry it with me to the grave, as a strong in- 
citement to unceasing vows [^] that Heaven may 
continue to you the choicest tokens of its beneficence 
— that your union and brotherly afl'ection may be 
perpetual — that the free constitution, which is the 
work of your hands, may be sacredly maintained — 
that its administration in every department may be 
stamped with wisdom and virtue — that, in fine, the 
happiness of the people of these States, under the 
auspices of liberty, may be made complete, by so 
careful a preservation and so prudent a use of this 

' unequal in usefulness * the constancy of your support 

' wander and fluctuate * the 

' the only return I can henceforth make 



FAREWELL ADDRESS. 367 

blessing as will acquire to them the gloty [ ' ] of re- 
commending it to the applause, the aiSfection, and 
adoption of every nation which is yet a stranger to it. 

Here, perhaps, I ought to stop. But a solici- 
tude for your welfare, which cannot end but with ray 
life, and the apprehension of danger, natural to that 
solicitude, [urge me on an occasion like the present, 
to offer] ^ to your solemn contemplation, and to re- 
commend to your frequent review, some sentiments ; 
which are the result of much reflection, of no incon- 
siderable observation, [^] and which appear to me 
all important to the permanency of your felicity as a 
People. — These will be offered to you with the more 
freedom as you can only see in them, the disinterested 
warnings of a parting friend, who can [possibly] have 

no personal motive to bias his counsels. [Nor can 

I forget, as an encouragement to it your indulgent 
reception of my sentiments on a former and not dis- 
similar occasion.] 

Interwoven as is the love of liberty with every liga- 
ment of your hearts, no recommendation of mine is 
necessary to fortify or confirm the attachment. 

The Unity of Government which constitutes you 

one people, is also now dear to you. It is justly 

so; — for it is a main Pillar in the Edifice of your 
real independence; [the support] of your tranquillity 
at home ; your peace abroad; of your safety ; [^ ] of 

' or satisfaction 

=* encouraged by the remembrance of your indulgent reception 
of my sentiments on an occasion not dissimilar to the present, urge 
me to offer 

^ and experience * in every relation 



368 APPENDIX. 

your prosperity [ ' ] ; of that very Liberty which yon 
so highly prize. — But as it is easy to foresee, that 
from [difierent]^ causes, and from difFerert quarters, 
much pains will be taken, many artifices employed, 
to weaken in youi minds the conviction of this truth; 
— as this is the point in your [political] fortress 
against which the batteries of internal and external 
enemies will be most constantl}- and actively (though 
often covertly and insidiously) directed, it is of infi- 
nite moment, that you should properly estimate the 
immense value of your national Union to your col- 
lective and individual happiness; — that you should 
cherish ['] a cordial, habitual, and immoveable at- 
tachment [to it, accustoming yourselves to think and 
speak of it as of the Palladium of your political saft'ty 
and prosperity ; watching for its preservation with 
jealous anxiety ; discountenancing whatever may 
suggest even a suspicion that it can in any event be 
abandoned, and indignantly frowning upon the first 
dawning of every attempt to alienate any portion of 
our Country from the rest, or to enfeeble the sacred 
ties which now link together the various parts.] ^ — 

For this you have every inducement of sympathy 
and interest. — Citizens [by birth or choice of a com- 

'■ in every shape '^ various ^ towards it 

* that you should accustom yourselves to reverence it as the Pal- 
ladium of your political safety and prosperity, adapting constantly 
your words and actions to that momentous idea; that you should 
watch for its preservation with jealous anxiety, discountenance 
whatever may suggest a suspicion that it can in any event be aban- 
doned ; and frown upon the first dawning of every attempt to alie- 
nate any portion of our country from the rest, or to enfeeble the 
sacred ties which now link together the several parts. 



FAREWELL ADDRESS. 369 

mon country],' that a country has a right to concen- 
trate your aftections. — The name of American, which 
belongs to you, in your national capacity, must 
always exalt the just pride of Patriotism, more than 
any appellation [^] derived from local discrimina- 
tions. — With slight shades of difference, you have the 
same Religion, Manners, Habits, and political Princi- 
ples. — You have in a common cause fought and tri- 
umphed together. — The Independence and Liberty 
you possess are the work of joint councils, and joint 
efforts — of common dangers, sufferings and successes. 

But these considerations, however powerfully they 
address themselves to your sensibility, are greatly 
outweighed by those which apply more immediately 
to your interest. — Here every portion of our country 
finds the most commanding motives for carefully 
guarding and preserving the union of the whole. 

The North in an [unrestrained]^ intercourse with 
the South, protected by the equal Laws of a common 
government, finds in the productions of the latter [ * ] 
great additional resources of maritime and commer- 
cial enterprise — and precious materials of manufac- 
turing industry. — The South in the same intercourse, 
benefiting by the agency of the North, sees its agri- 
culture grow and its commerce expand. Turning 
partly into its own channels the seamen of the North, 
it finds its particular navigation envigorated ; — and 
while it contributes, in different ways, to nourish and 
increase the general mass of the national navigation, 
it looks forward to the protection of a maritime 

* of a common country by birth or clioice ^ to bo 

3 unf'.'ttered * many of the peculiar 

Y 



370 APPENDIX. 

Btrength to which itself is unequally adapted. — The 
East, in a like intercourse with the West, already 
finds, and in the progressive improvement of interior 
communications, by laud and water, will more and 
more find, a valuable vent for the commodities which 
it brings from abroad, or manufactures at home. — 
The West derives from the East supplies requisite to 
its growth and comfort, — and what is perhaps of still 
greater consequence, it must of necessity owe the 
secure enjoyment of indispensable outlets for its own 
productions to the weight, influence, and the future 
maritime strength of the Atlantic side of the Union, 
directed by an indissoluble community of interest, as 
one Nation. — [Any other] ^ tenure by which the West 
can hold this essential advantage, [whether derived]^ 
from its own separate strength, or from an apostate 
and unnatural connection with any foreign Power, 
must be intrinsically precarious. [^] 

[*] Wliile [then] every part of our Country thus 
[feels] ^ an immediate and particular interest in Union, 
all the parts ^ [combined cannot fail to find] in the 
united mass of means and efl:brts [ ' ] greater strength, 
greater resource, proportionably greater security from 
external danger, a less frequent interruption of their 
Peace by foreign Nations; and, [what is]^ of inesti- 
mable value ! they must derive from Union an ex- 

1 The 2 either 

' liable every moment to be disturbed by the fluctuating combi- 
nations of the primary interests of Europe, which must be expected 
to regulate the conduct of the Nations of which it is composed. 
* And * finds « of it 

7 cannot fail to find * which is an advantage 



FAREWELL AI>I>RESS. 371 

emption from those broils and wars between them- 
selves, which [so frequently]^ afflict neighbouring 
countries, not tied together by the same government; 
which their own rivalships alone would be sufficient 
to produce; but which opposite foreign alliances, 
attachments and intrigues would stimulate and em- 
bitter. — Hence likewise they will avoid the necessity 
of those overgrown Military establishments, which 
under any form of Government are inauspicious to 
liberty, and which [are to be regarded]^ as particu- 
larly hostile to Eepublicau Liberty: In this sense it 
is, that your Union ought to be considered as a main 
prop of your liberty, and that the love of the one 
ought to endear to you the preservation of the other. 
These considerations speak a persuasive language 
to [every3^ reflecting and virtuous mind, — [and]* ex- 
hibit the continuance of the Union as a primary object 
of Patriotic desire. — Is there a doubt, whether a com- 
mon government can embrace so large a sphere? — • 
Let experience solve it. — To listen to mere specula- 
tion in such a case were criminal. — [We are author- 
ised]^ to hope that a proper organization of the whole, 
with the auxiliary agency of governments for the re- 
spective subdivisions, will atibrd a happy issue to tlio 
experiment. 'Tis well worth a fair and full experi- 
ment. [^] With such powerful and obvious motives 

* inevitably ' there is reason to regard ^ any 

* they * 'Tis natural 

* It may not impossibly be found, that the spirit of party, the 
machinations of foreign powers, the corruption and ambition of in- 
dividual citizens are more formidable adversaries to the Unity of 
our Empire than any inherent difficulties in the scheme. Against 



372 APPENDIX. 

to Union, [affecting]^ all parts of our country ['] 
while experience shall not have demonstrated its iiu- 
practicabilitj, there will always be [reason]^ to dis- 
trust tlie patriotism of those, who in any quarter may 
endeavor to weaken its bands. [*] — 

In contemplating the causes which may disturb our 
Union, it occurs as matter of serious concern, that 
[any ground should have been furnished for charac- 
terizing parties by]^ Greographical discriminations — 

these the mounds of national opinion, national sympathy and na- 
tional jealousy ought to be raised, 

^ as ^ have * cause in the fact itself 

* Besides the more serious causes already hinted as threatening 
our Union, there is one less dangerous, but sufficiently dangerous 
to make it prudent to be upon our guard against it. I allude to 
the petulence of party diflFerences of opinion. It is not uncommon 
to hear the irritations which these excite vent themselves in decla- 
rations that the different parts of the United States are ill affected 
to each other, in menaces that the Union will be dissolved by this 
or that measure. Intimations like these are as indiscreet as they 
are intemperate. Though frequently made with levity and with- 
out any really evil intention, they have a tendency to produce the 
consequence which they indicate. They teach the minds of men 
to consider the Union as precarious; — as an object to which they 
ought not to attach their hopes and fortunes; — and thus chill the 
Bentiment in its favour. By alarming the pride of those to whom 
they are addressed, they set ingenuity at work to depreciate the 
value of the thing, and to discover reasons of indifference towards 
it. This is not wise. — It will be much wiser to habituate our- 
selves to reverence the Union as the palladium of our national 
happiness ; to accommodate constantly our words and actions ta 
that idea, and to discountenance whatever may suggest a suspicion 
that it can in any event be abandoned. (In the margin opposite 
this paragraph are the words, "Not important enough.") 

' our parties for some time past have been too much character- 
ized by 



FAREWELL ADDRESS. 373 

Northern and Southern — Atlantic and Western ; 
fwhence designing men may endeavour to excite a 
belief that there is a real difference of local interests 
and views.] ^ One of the expedients of Party to ac- 
quire influence, within particular districts, is to mis- 
represent the opinions and aims of other districts. — 
You cannot shield yourselves too much against the 
jealousies and heart burnings which spring from 
these misrepresentations; — They tend to render alien 
to each other those who ought to be bound together 
by fraternal aflection. — The inhabitants of our Western 
country have lately had a useful lesson on this [head.]^ 
— They have seen, in the negotiation by the Execu- 
tive, and in the unanimous ratiiication by the Senate, 
of the Treaty with Spain, and in the universal satis- 
faction at that event, throughout the United States, a 
decisive proof how unfounded were the suspic' '^^iS 
propagated among them of a policy in the General 
Government and in the Atlantic States unfriendly to 
their interests in regard to the Mississippi. — They 

^ These discriminations, the mere contrivance of the spirit 

of Party, (always dexterous to seize every handle by which the 
passions can be wielded, and too skilful not to turn to account 
the sympathy of neighborhood), have furnished an argument 
against the Union as evidence of a real difference of local interests 
and views ; and serve to hazard it by organizing larger districts 
of country, under the leaders of contending factions; whose rival- 
ships, prejudices and schemes of ambition, rather than the true in- 
terests of the Country, will direct the use of their influence. If it 
be possible to correct this poison in the habit of our body politic, 
it is worthy the endeavours of the moderate and the good to 
effect it. 

* subject 

32 



S74 APPENDIX. 

have been witnesses to the formation of two Treaties, 
that with G. Britain, and that with Spain, which 
secure to them every thing they could desire, in re- 
spect to our Foreign Relations, towards confirming 
their prosperity. — Will it not be their wisdom to rely 
for the preservation of these advantages on the Union 
by which they were procured? — Will they not hence 
forth be deaf to those advisers, if such there are, who 
would sever them from their Brethren, and connect 
tliem with Aliens? — 

To the efficacy and permanency of your Union, a 
Government for the whole is indispensable, — No alli- 
ances however strict between the parts can be an 
adequate substitute. — They must inevitably experi- 
ence the infractions and interruptions which all alli- 
ances in all times have experienced. — Sensible of this 
momentous truth, you have improved upon your first 
essay, by the adoption of a Constitution of Govern- 
ment, better calculated than your former for an inti- 
mate Union, and for the efficacious management of 
your common concerns. — This government, the off- 
spring of our own choice uninlluenced and unawed, 
adopted upon full investigation and mature delibera- 
tion, completely free in its principles, in the distribu- 
tion of its powers, uniting security with energy, and 
containing within itself a provision for its own amend- 
ment, has a just claim to your confidence and your 
support. — Respect for its authority, compliance with 
its Laws, acquiescence in its measures, are duties 
enjoined by the fundamental maxims of true Liberty. 
— The basis of our political systems is the right of 
the people to make and to alter their Constitutions 



FAREWELL ADDRESS. 375 

of Government. — But the Constitution which at any 
time exists, 'till changed byau explicit and authentic 
act of the whole People, is sacredly obligatory upon 
all. — The very idea of the power and the right of the 
People to establish Government, presupposes the 
duty of every individual to obey the established Gov- 
ernment. 

All obstructions to the execution of the Laws, all 
combinations and associations, under whatever plausi- 
ble character, with [the real] design to direct, con- 
troul, counteract, or awe the regular deliberation and 
action of the constituted authorities, are destructive 
of this fundamental principle and of fatal tendency. — 
They serve to organize faction, to give it an artificial 
and extraordinary force — to put, [^] in the place of 
the delegated will of the Nation, the will of a party ; 
— often a small but artful and enterprizing minority 
of the community; — and, according to the alternate 
triumphs of diiferent parties, to make the public ad- 
ministration the mirror of the ill-concerted and incon- 
gruous projects of faction, rather than the organ of 
consistent and wholesome plans digested by common 
councils and modified by mutual interests. — However 
combinations or associations of the above description 
may now and then answer popular ends, [^] they are 
likely, in the course of time and things, to become 
potent engines, by which cunning, ambitious and un- 
principled men will be enabled to subvert the Power 
of the People and to usurp for themselves the reins 

' it ^ and purposes 



876 APPENDIX. 

of Government ; destroying afterwards the very en- 
gines which have lifted them to unjust dominion. — 

Toward- the preservation of your Government and 
the permanency of your present happy state, it is re- 
quisite, not only that you steadily discountenance irre- 
gular oppositions to its acknowledged authority, but 
also that you resist with care [ ^] spirit of innovation 
upon its principles however specious the pretexts.— 
One method of assault may be to eifect, in the forma 
of the Constitution, alterations which will impair the 
energy of the system, [and thus to]^ undermine what 
cannot be directly overthrown. — In all the clianges 
to which you may be invited, remember that time 
and habit are at least as necessary to fix the true 
character of Governments, as of other human institu- 
tions — that experience is the surest standard, by 
which to test the real tendency of the existing Con- 
stitution of a Country — that facility in changes upon 
the credit of mere hypothesis and opinion exposes to 
perpetual change, from the endless variety of hypo- 
thesis and opinion: — and remember, especially, that 
for the efficient management of your common inte- 
rests, in a country so extensive as ours, a Government 
of as much vigour as is consistent wnth the perfect 
security of Liberty is indispensable — Liberty itself 
will find in such a Government, with powers properly 
distributed and adjusted, its surest Guardian. — [It is 
indeed little else than a name, where the Government 
is too feeble to withstand the enterprises of faction, to 
confine each member of the Society within the limits 



to 



FAREWELL ADDRESS. SV 

presciribed by the laws, and to maintain all in the 
secure and tranquil enjoyment of the rights of person 
and property.] 1 

I have already intimated to you the danger of Par- 
ties in the State, with particular reference to the 
founding of them on Geographical discriminations. — 
Let me now take a more comprehensive view, and 
warn you in the most solemn manner against the 
baneful efiects of the Spirit of Party, generally. 

This Spirit, unfortunately, is inseparable from 
[our]2 nature, having its root in the strongest pas- 
sions of the [human] mind. — It exists under different 
shapes in all Governments, more or less stifled, con- 
trouled or repressed; but in those of the popular 
form it is seen in its greatest raukness, and is truly 
their worst enemy. — [^] 

• Owing to you as I do a frank and free disclosure of my heart, 
\ shall not conceal from you the belief I entertain, that your Gov- 
ernment as at present constituted is far more likely to prove too 
feeble than too powerful. 

* human 

' In Republics of narrow extent, it is not difficult for those who 
at any time hold the reins of Power, and command the ordinary 
public favor, to overturn the established [constitution]* in favor 
of their own aggrandizement. — The same thing may likewise be 
too often accomplished in such Republics, by partial combinations 
of men, who though not in office, from birth, riches or other 
sources of distinction, have extraordinary influence and numerous 
[adherents.]! — By debauching the Military force, by surprising 
some commanding citadel, or by some other sudden and unfore- 
seen movement the fate of the Republic is decided. — But in Re- 
publics of large extent, usurpation can scarcely make its way 
through these avenues. — The powers and opportunities of resist* 
* order f retainers 

32* 



378 APPENDIX. 

Tlie alternate domination of one faction over ano- 
ther, sharpened by the spirit of revenge natural to 
party dissension, which in different ages and coun-- 
tries has perpetrated the most horrid enormities, is 
itself a frightful despotism. — But this leads at length 
to a more formal and permanent despotism. — The 
disorders and miseries, which result, gradually incline 
the minds of men to seek security and repose in the 
absolute power of an Individual : and sooner or later 
the chief of some prevailing faction, more able or 
more fortunate than his competitors, turns this dispo- 
sition to the purposes of his own elevation, on the 
ruins of Public Liberty. 

Without looking forward to an extremity of this 
kind, (which nevertheless ought not to be entirely 
out of sight), the common and continual mischiefs of 
the spirit of Party are sufficient' to make it the inte- 
rest and the d/ity of a wise People to discourage and 
restrain it. — 

It serves always to distract the Public Councils and 
enfeeble the Public administration. — It agitates the 
community with ill founded jealousies and false alarms, 
kindles the animosity of one part against another, 
foments occasionally riot and insurrection. — It opens 
the door to foreign influence and corruption, which 
tind a facilitated access [to the Government itself 
through the channels of party passions. Thus, tlic 

ance of a wide extended and numerous nation, defy the successi'ul 
efiforts of the ordinary Military force, or of any collections which 
wealth and patronage may call to their aid. — In such Republics, 
it is safe to assert, that the conflicts of popular factions are the 
chief, if not the only inlets, of usurpation and Tyranuy. 



FAREW^ELL ADDRESS. 379 

policy and the will of one country, are subjected to 
the policy and will of another.]' 

There is an opinion that parties in free countries 
are useful checks upon the Administration of the 
Government, and serve to keep alive the Spirit of 
Liberty. — This within certain limits is probably true 
— and in Governments of a Monarchical cast, Patriot- 
ism may look with indulgence, if not with favour, 
upon the spirit of party. — But in those of the popuhir 
character, in Governments purely elective, it is a 
spirit not to be encouraged. — From their natural ten- 
dency, it is certain there will always be enough of 
that spirit for every salutary purpose, — and there 
being constant danger of excess, the effort ought to 
be, by force of public opinion, to mitigate and assuage 
it. — A fire not to be quenched; it demands a uniform 
vigilance to prevent its bursting into a flame, lest, 
[instead of warming, it should]^ consume. — 

It is important, likewise, that the habits of think- 
ing in a free country should inspire caution in those 
entrusted with its administration, to confine them- 
selves within their respective constitutional spheres; 
avoiding in the exercise of the powers of one depart- 
ment to encroach upon another. — The spirit of en- 
croachment tends to consolidate the powers of all the 
departments in one, and thus to create, [^] whatever 
[the form of government, a real]* despotism. — A just 

1 through the channels of party passions. It frequently subjects 
the policy of our own country to the policy of some foreign coun- 
try, and even enslaves the will of our Government to the will of 
Borne foreign Government. 

* ic should not only warm, but ^ under * forms, a 



380 APPENDIX. 

estimate of that love of power, and [*] proneness to 
•abuse it, which predominates in the human heart, ia 
sufficient to satisfy us of the truth of this position. — 
The necessity of reciprocal checks in the exercise of 
oolitical power, by dividing and distributing it into 
different depositories, and constituting each the Guar- 
dian of the Public "Weal [against]^ invasions by the 
others, has been evinced by experiments ancient and 
modern ; some of them in our country and under our 
own eyes. — To preserve them must be as necessary 
as to institute them. — If in the opinion of the People, 
the distribution or modification of the Constitutional 
powers be in any particular wrong, let it be corrected 
by an amendment in the way which the Constitution 
designates. — But let there be no change by usurpa- 
tion ; for though this, in one instance, may be the 
instrument of good, it is the [customary]^ weapon by 
which free governments are destroyed. — The piece- 
dent [^] must always greatly overbalance in perma- 
nent evil any partial or [transient]^ benefit which the 
use [^] can at any time yield. — 

Of all the dispositions and habits which lead to 
political prosperity. Religion and morality are indis- 
pensable supports. — In vain would that man claim 
the tribute of Patriotism, who should labour to sub- 
vert these great Pillars of human happiness, these 
firmest props of the duties of Men and Citizens.- - 
The mere Politician, equally with the pious man, 
ought to respect and to cherish them. — A volume 

i the ^ from * usual and natural 

* of its use ' temporary * itself 



FAREWELL ADDRESS. 381 

could not trace all their connections with private 
and public felicity. — Let it simply be asked where is 
the security for property, for reputation, for life, if 
the sense of religious obligation desert the oaths, 
which are the instruments of investigation in Courts 
of Justice ? And let us with caution indulge the 
supposition that morality can be maintained without 
religion. — Whatever may be conceded to the influ- 
ence of refined education on minds of peculiar struc- 
ture — reason and experience both forbid us to expect 
that national morality can prevail in exclusion of 
religious principle. — 

'Tis substantially true, that virtue or morality is a 
necessary spring of popular government. — The rule 
indeed extends with more or less force to every spe- 
cies of Free Government. — Who that is a sincere 
friend to it, can look with indiflference upon attempts 
to shake the foundation of the fabric? — 

[Promote then as an object of primary importance, 
institutions for the general diffusion of knowledge. — 
In proportion as the structure of a government gives 
force to public opinion, it is essential that public 
opinion should be enlightened.] — "^ 

' Cultivate industry and frugality, as auxiliaries to good morals 
and sources of private and public prosperity. — Is there not room 
to regret that our propensity to expense exceeds our means for it? 
Is there not more luxury among us and more diffusively, than 
suits the actual stage of our national progress? Whatever may be 
the apology for luxury in a country, mature in the Arts which are 
its ministers, and the cause of national opulence — can it promote 
the advantage of a young country, almost wholly agricultural, in 
the infancy of the arts, and certainly not in the maturity of 
wealth 7 



382 APPENDIX. 

As a very important source of strength and secu- 
rity, cherish public credit. — One method of preserv- 
ing it is to use it as [sparingly]^ as possible : — avoid- 
ing occasions of expense by cultivating peace, but 
remembering also that timely disbursements to pre- 
pare for danger frequently prevent much greater dis- 
bursements to repel it — avoiding likewise the accu- 
mulation of debt, not only by [shunning]^ occasions 
of expense, but by vigorous exertions in time of Peaco 
to discharge the debts which unavoidable wars may 
have occasioned, not ungenerously throwing upon 
posterity the burthen which we ourselves ought to 
bear. The execution of these maxims belongs to 
'your Representatives, but it is necessary that public 
opinion should [co-operate.]^ — To facilitate to them 
the performance of their duty, it is essential that you 
should practically bear in mind, that towards the 
payment of debts there must be Revenue — that to 
have Revenue there must be taxes — that no taxes 
can be devised which are not more or less inconve- 
nient and unpleasant — that the intrinsic embarrass- 
ment inseparable from the selection of the proper 
objects (which is always a choice of difficulties) ought 
to be a decisive motive for a candid construction of 
the conduct of the Government in making it, and for 
a spirit of acquiescence in the measures for obtaining 
Revenue which the public exigencies may at any 
time dictate. — 

Observe good faith and justice towards all Na- 

(Over this paragraph in the original a piece of paper ia wafered, 
on which the passage is written as printed in the text.) 
* little ''■ avoiding ' coincide 



FAREWELL ADDRESS. 38b 

tions. ['] Cultivate peace and harmony with all. — • 
Relitrion and morality enjoin this conduct; andean 
it be that good policy does not equally enjoin it? — 
It will be worthy of a free, enlightened, and, at no 
distant period, a great nation, to give to mankind 
the magnanimous and too novel example of a People 
always guided by an exalted justice and benevolence. 
— Who can doubt that in the course of time aiid 
things, the fruits of such a plan would richly repay 
any temporary advantages which might be lost by a 
steady adherence to it? Can it be, that Providence 
has not connected the permanent felicity of a Na- 
tion with its virtue? The experiment, at least, is 
recommended by every sentiment which ennobles 
human nature. — Alas! is it rendered impossible by 
its vices? 

In the execution of such a plan nothing is more 
essential than that [permanent, inveterate]^ antipa- 
thies against particular nations and passionate attach- 
ments for others should be excluded; and that in 
place of them just and amicable feelings towards all 
should be cultivated. — The Nation, which indulges 
towards another [an] ^ habitual hatred or [an]* habi- 
tual fondness, is in some degree a slave. It is a slave 
to its animosity or to its affection, either of which is 
sufficient to lead it astray from its duty and its inte- 
rest. — Antipathy in one Nation against another [^] 

^ and cultivate peace and harmony with all, for in public as well 
as in private transactions, I am persuaded that honesty will always 
be found to be the best policy. 
* rooted 'a * a 

' begets of course a similar sentiment in the other, 



384 ' APPENDIX. 

disposes each more readily to offer insult and injury, 
to lay hold of slight causes of umbrage, and to be 
haughty and intractable, when accidental or trifling 
occasions of dispute occur. — Hence frequent colli- 
sions, obstinate, envenomed and bloody contests. — 
The Nation prompted by ill-will and resentment 
sometimes impels to War the Government, contrary 
to [the best] ' calculations of policy. The Govern- 
ment sometimes participates in the [national] propen- 
sity, and adopts through passion what reason would 
reject; — at other times, it makes the animosity of 
the Nation subservient to projects of hostility insti- 
gated by pride, ambition, and other sinister and per- 
nicious motives. — The peace often, sometimes per- 
haps the Liberty, of Nations has been the victim. — 

So likewise a passionate attachment of one Nation 
for another produces a variety of evils. — Sympathy 
for the favourite nation, facilitating the illusion of an 
imaginary common interest in cases where no real 
common interest exists, and infusing into one [^] 
the enmities of the other, betrays the former into a 
participation in the quarrels and wars of the latter, 
without adequate inducement or justification: It 
leads also to concessions to the favourite Nation of 
privileges denied to others, which is apt doubly to 
injure the Nation making the concessions; [^] by 
unnecessarily parting with what ought to have been 
retained, [*] and by exciting jealousy, ill-will, and a 
lisposition to retaliate, in the parties from whom 
equal privileges are withheld ; and it gives to ambi- 

^ its own 2 another • Istly * 2dly 



FAREWELL ADDRESS. ' 38a 

tious, corrupted, or deluded citizens (who devote 
themselves to the favourite Nation) facility to betray, 
or sacrifice the interests of their own country, without 
odium, sometimes even with popularity: — gilding 
with the appearances of a virtuous sense of obliga- 
tion, a commendable deference for public opinion, or 
a laudable zeal for public good, the base or foolish 
compliances of ambition, corruption or infatuation. — 

As avenues to foreign influence in innumerable 
ways, such attachments are particularly alarming to 
the truly enlightened and independent Patriot. — 
How many opportunities do they afford to tamper 
with domestic factions, to practise the arts of seduc- 
tion, to mislead public opinion, to influence or awe 
the public councils ! Such an attachment of a small 
or weak, towards a great and powerful nation, dooms 
the former to be the satellite of the latter. 

Against the insidious wiles of foreign influence, [I 
conjure you to] believe me, [fellow citizens],' the jea- 
lousy of a free people ought to be [constantl^Y awake, 
since history and experience prove that foreign influ- 
ence is one of the most baneful foes of Republican 
Government. — But that jealous}- to be useful must be 
impartial ; else it becomes the instrument of the very 
influence to be avoided, instead of a defence against 
it. — Excessive partiality for one foreign nation and 
excessive dislike of another, cause those whom they 
actuate to see danger only on one side, and serve to 
veil and even second the arts of influence on the 
other. — Real Patriots, who may resist the intrigues 

• my friends, * incessantly 

33 z 



386 APPENDIX. 

of the favourite, are liable to become suspected and 
odious; while its tools and dupes usurp the applause 
and confidence of the people, to surrender their in- 
terests. — 

The great rule of conduct for us, in regard to 
foreign nations is, [in extending our commercial rela- 
tions], to have with them as little Political connection 
as possible. — So far as we have already formed en- 
gagements let them be fulfilled with [ * ] perfect good 
faith. — Here let us stop. — 

Europe has a set of primary interests, which to us 
have none, or a very remote relation. — Hence she 
must be engaged in frequent controversies, the causes 
of which are essentially foreign to our concerns. — 
Hence therefore it must be unwise in us to implicate 
ourselves by [^] artificial [ties]^ in the ordinary vicis- 
situdes of her politics, [or]* the ordinary combinations 
and collisions of her friendships, or enmities. 

Our detached and distant situation invites and ena- 
bles us to pursue a diflferent course. — If we remain 
one People, under an efficient government, the period 
is not far off, when we may defy material injury from 
external annoyance ; when we may take such an atti- 
tude as will cause the neutrality we may at any time 
resolve [upon]^ to be scrupulously respected. — When 
[^] belligerent nations, under the impossibility of 
making acquisitions upon us, will [not] lightly hazard 
the giving us provocation [']; when we may choose 

circumspection indeed, but witl^ * an ' connection 

in ' to observe • neither of two 

' to throw our weight into the opposite ap^le ; 



FAREWELL ADDRESS. 387 

peace or war, as our interest guided by ['] justice 
shall counsel. — 

Why forego the advantages of so peculiar a situa- 
tion ? — Why quit our own to stand upon foreign 
ground ? — Why, by interweaving our destiny with 
that of any part of Europe, entangle our peace and 
prosperity in the toils of European ambition, rival- 
ship, interest, humour or caprice ? — 

'Tis our true policy to steer clear of permanent alli- 
ances, [^] with any portion of the foreign world; — 
so far, r mean, as we are now at liberty to do it — for 
let me not be understood as capable of patronizing 
infidelity to [exic^ting]' engagements, ([I hold the 
maxim no less applicable to public than to private 
aft'airs]" that honesty is [always] the best policy.) — [I 
repeat it therefore let those engagements] ^ be observed 
in their genuine sense. — But in my opinion it is un- 
necessary and would be unwise to extend them. — 

Taking care always to keep ourselves, by suitable 
establishments, on a respectably defensive posture, 
we may safely trust to [temporary]^ alliances for ex- 
traordinary emergencies. 

Harmony, liberal intercourse with all Nations, are 
recommended by policy, humanity and interest. — But 
even our commercial policy should hold an equal and 
impartial hand: — neither seeking nor granting ex- 
clusive favouis or preferences ; — consulting the natu- 
ral course of things; — diflusing and diversifying by 
gentle means the streams of commerce, but forcing 

' our ^ intimate connections ' pre-existing 

* for I hold it to be as true in public, as in private transaotious. 

* those must * occasional 



388 APPENDIX. 

nothing; — establishing with Powers so disposed — 
in order to give to trade a stable course, to define the 
rights of our Merchants, and to enable the Govern 
ment to support them — conventional rules of inter- 
course, the best that present circunnstanceo and mu- 
tual opinion will permit; but temporary, and liable 
to be from time to time abandoned or varied, as ex- 
perience and circumstances shall dictate ; constantly 
keeping in view, that 'tis folly in one nation to look 
for disinterested favors [from]' another, — that it must 
pay with a portion of its independence for whatever 
it may accept under that character — that by such 
acceptance, it may place itself in the condition of 
having given equivalents for nominal favours and yet 
of being reproached with ingratitude for not giving 
more. — There can be no greater error than to expect, 
or calculate upon real favours from Nation to Nation. 
— 'Tis an illusion which experience must cure, which 
a just pride ought to discard. 

In offering to you, my Countrymen, these counsels 
of an old and affectionate friend, I dare not hope they 
will make the strong and lasting impression, I could 
wish, — that they will controul the usual current of 
the passions, or prevent our Nation from running the 
course which has hitherto marked the destiny of Na- 
tions. — But if I may even flatter myself, that they 
may be productive of some partial benefit; some occa- 
Bional good ; that they may now and then recur to 
moderate the fury of party spirit, to warn against the 
mischiefs of foreign intrigue, to guard against the 



at 



FAREWELL ADDRESS. 389 

impostures of pretended patriotism, this hope will be 
a full recompense for the solicitude for your welfare, 
by which they have been dictated. — 

How far in the discharge of my official duties, i 
have been guided by the principles which have been 
delineated, the public Records and other evidencef 
of my conduct must witness to You, and to the World 
— To myself, the assurance of my own conscience is 
that I have at least believed myself to be guided b^ 
them. 

In relation to the still subsisting War in Europe, 
my Proclamation of the 22d of April 1793 is the index 
to my plan. — Sanctioned by your approving voice 
and by that of Your Eepresentatives in both Houses 
of Congress, the spirit of that measure has continu- 
ally governed me: — uninfluenced by any attempts 
to deter or divert me from it. 

After deliberate examination with the aid of the 
best lights I could obtain, [^] I was well satisfied 
that our country, under all the circumstances of the 
case, had a right to take, and was bound in duty and 
interest, to take a Neutral position. — Having taken 
it, I determined, as far as should depend upon me, to 
maintain it, with moderation, perseverance and firm- 
ness. — 

[The considerations which respect the right to hold 
this conduct, [it is not necessary]^' on this occasion 
[to detail.] I will only observe, that according to my 

( * and from men disagreeing in their impressions of the origin, 
progress, and nature of that war,) 

* some of tliem of a delicate nature would be improperly the 
subject of explanation 

33* 



390 APPENDIX. 

understanding of the matter, that right, so far from 
being denied by any of the Belligerent Powers, has 
been virtually admitted by all. — y 

The duty of holding a neutral conduct may be in- 
ferred, without anything more, from the obligation 
which justice and humanity impose on every Nation, 
in cases in which it is free to act, to maintain invio- 
late the relations of Peace and Amity towards other 
Nations. — • 

The inducements of interest for observing that con- 
duct, will best be referred to your own reflections and 

experience. With me, a predominant motive has 

been to endeavour to gain time to our country to set- 
tle and mature its yet recent institutions, and to pro- 
gress without interruption to that degree of strength 
and consistency, which is necessary to give it, hu- 
manly speaking, the command of its own fortunes. 

' The considerations wiiich respect the right to hold this con- 
duct, some of them of a delicate nature, would be improperly the 
subject of explanation on this occasion. I will barely observe that 
according to my understanding of the matter, that right so far 
from being denied by any belligerent Power, has been virtually 
admitted by all. — 

This paragraph is then erased from the word " conduct," and 
the following sentence interlined, "would be improperly the sub- 
ject of particular discussion on this occasion. 1 will barely ob- 
serve that to me they appear to be warranted by well-established 
principles of the Laws of Nations as applicable to the nature of 
our alliance with France in connection with the circumstances of 
the War, and the relative situation of the contending Parties. 

A piece of paper is afterwards wafered over both, on which the 
paragraph as it stands in the text is written, and on the margin ia 
the following note : " This is the tirst draft, and it is questionable 
which of the two is to be preferred." 



FAREWELL ADDRESS. 391 

Though in reviewing the incidents of my Admin- 
istration, I am unconscious of intentional error — I 
am nevertheless too sensible of my defects not to 
think it probable that I [may] have committed many 
errors. — [Whatever they may be I] ^ fervently beseech 
the Almighty to avert or mitigate [the evils to which 
they may tend.] ^ — I shall also carry with me the hope 
that my country will never cease to view them with 
indulgence ; and that after forty-five years of my life 
dedicated to its service, with an upright zeal, the 
faults of incompetent abilities will be consigned to 
oblivion, as myself must soon be to the mansions of 
rest. [3] 

Relying on its kindness in this as in other things, 
and actuated by that fervent love towards it, which is 
so natural to a man, who views in it the native soil 

* I deprecate the evils to which they may tend, and 

* them 

* May I without the charge of ostentation add, that neither am- 
bition nor interest has been the impelling cause of my actions — 
that I have never designedly misused any power confided to me 
nor hesitated to use one, where I thought it could redound to your 
benefit? May I without the appearance of afi'ectation say, that 
the fortune with which I came into office is not bettered otherwise 
than by the improvement in the value of property which the quick 
progress and uncommon prosperity of our country have produced ? 
May I still further add without breach of delicacy, that I shall re- 
tire without cause for a blush, with no sentiments alien to the force 
of those vows for the happiness of his country so natural to a citi- 
zen who sees in it the native soil of his progenitors and himself for 
foul generations? 

On the margin opposite this paragraph is the following note : 
"This paragraph may have the appearance of self-distrust and 
mere vanity." 



392 APPENDIX. 

of himself and his progenitors for [several]' genera- 
tions; — I anticipate with pleasing expectation that 
retreat, in which I promise myself to realize, without 
alloy, the sweet enjoyment of partaking, in the midst 
of my fellow citizens, the benign influence of good 
Laws under a free Government, — the ever favourite 
object of my heart, and the happy reward, as I trust, 
of our mutual cares, labours and dangers. [ ^ ] 

G*^. Washington. 



United States, 1 179^ 
19th September. ) 



' four 

* The paragraph beginning with the words, •' May I without the 
charge of ostentation add," having been struck out, the following 
note is written on the margin of that which is inserted in its place 
in the text: — "Continuation of the paragraph preceding the laet 
ending with the word 'rest.' '* 



STATEMENT OF MR. CLAYPOOLE. 893 



II. 

STATEMENT OF MR. DAVID C. CLAYPOOLE. 

Having been requested by some very respectal le 
Gentlemen, to give an account of the circumstances 
attending the first Publication of the Valedictory Ad- 
dress of the late President Washington to the People 
of the United States. — I will now state them as accu- 
rately as my memory serves me. 

A few days before the appearance of this highly 
interesting Document in print, I received a Message 
from the President by his Private Secretary, Col. 
Lear, signifying his desire to see me. I waited on 
him at the appointed time, and found him sitting 
alone in the Drawing Room. He received me very 
kindly, and after paying my respects to him, desired 
me to take a seat near him; then, addressing himself 
to me, said, that he had for some time contemplated 
withdrawing from Public Life, and had at length con- 
cluded to do so at the end of the [then] present terra ; 
that he had some Thoughts and Reiiections on the 
occasion, which he deemed proper to communicate to 
the People of the United States, and which he wished 
to appear in the Daily Advertiser, of which I was 
Proprietor and Editor. He paused, and I took occa- 
sion to thank him for having selected that Paper as 
the channel of communication to the Public, espe- 
cially as I viewed this choice as an evidence of hia 



394 APPENDIX. 

approbation of the principles and manner in which 
the work was conducted. He silently assented, and 

asked me when I could make the publication. 1 

answered that the time should be made perfectly 
convenient to himself, and the following Monday 
was fixed on ; — he then said that his Secretary 
would deliver me the Copy on the next morning 

[Friday], and I withdrew. After the Proof sheet 

had been carefully' compared with the Copy and cor- 
rected by myself, I carried two different Revises to 
be examined by the President, who made but few 
alterations from the Original, except in the punctua- 
tion, in which he was very minute. The Publica- 
tion of the address bearing the same date with the 
Paper, September 19th, 1796, being completed, I 
waited on the President with the Original, and in 
presenting it to him, expressed how much I should 
be gratified by being permitted to retain it ; upon 
which in the most obliging manner, he handed it 
buck to me, saying, that if I wished for it, I might 
keep it; — and I took my leave. 

Any person of observation, who has read the hand- 
writing of President Washington, would, on seeing 
a second specimen, at once recognize it. And, as I 
had formerly been honored by several written com- 
munications from him on public business, I may say 
that his writing was quite familiar to me, and I think 
I could at any time and without hesitation, identify 
it. The Manuscript Copy of the Address consists of 
82 pages of Quarto Letterpaper, rather sparsely writ- 
teu, and with many alterations, as in some places 
whole Paragraphs erased and others substituted — in 



STATEMENT OF MR. CLAYPOOLE. 395 

othe'^ several Lines struck out — in others sentences 
and w^rds put out, and others put in their place. A 
critical examination of it will show that the whole 
with all the corrections from first to last was the w(jrk 
of one hand only ; and I can confidently assert that 
no other pen ever touched the original now in my 
possessio7j than that of the great man "who was first 
in the Hearts of his Countrymen." 



39fi APPENDIX. 



III. 



REPORT MADE BY WM. RAWLE, Esq., TO TUE 
HISTORICAL SOCIETY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 

December 16, 1825. 
CONVERSATION WITH DAVID C. CLAYPOLE. 

Having been informed that Mr. Claypoole was in 
possession of the original MS. of the valedictory ad- 
dress of President Washington, I had written to him 
to inquire whether he was willing to deposit it with 
the Historical Society. In a polite letter, dated Dec. 
5th, he declined parting with it. I wrote another 
letter, expressing a wish to hear from himself an 
account of the conversation he had with the Presi- 
dent in respect to the printing the address, — and he 
this day called on me, and related that the President 
having sent his private secretary to him desiring to 
see him, he called at the appointed time, and found 
the President alone. 

The latter then informed him that he wished him 
to print, in his daily paper, an address from himself 
to the people of the United States. Mr. Claypoolu 
answered that he felt himself highly favored by the 
selection for that purpose, as he considered it as a 
mark that he approved of the mode of his conduct- 
ing the paper. The President bowed, as assenting 
to it, and asked how soon it could be done. Mr. 



REPORT OF WILLIAM RAWLE. 897 

Claypoole replied that it should be done at any time 
he would fix. He requested it might be as soon as 
possible, and expressed a wish to have the proofs sent 
to him. 

The next morning the manuscript was sent down 
by the same person who brought the message, and it 
was immediately put to press — both the proofs and 
the revises were sent to him, and the publication ap- 
peared on the 19th September, 1796, about four days 
after the first interview. 

After this Mr. Claypoole called on him with the 
manuscript to return it, but at the same time he told 
the President, in the most respectful manner, that he 
should consider it as an inestimable favor if he would 
allow him to keep it. The President answered, if it 
would be any satisfaction to him, he was welcome to 
it — and they then parted — Mr. Claypoole retaining 
this valuable autographical paper, and the possession 
of which he has never parted with. 

After relating these facts, Mr. Claypoole produced 
to me the original, and I saw with reverence and 
delight a small quarto book, containing about thirty 
pages, all in the hand-writing of this great man. It 
bears throughout the marks of original composition ; 
there are many erasures and interlineations — a trans- 
position of paragraphs, and other indications of its 
coming immediately from the hands of an unassisted 
individual. I counted the number of lines in the 
whole work, which answered to 1086, and of lines 
erased there were 174. 

Being perfectly acquainted with the hand-writing 
of President Washington, T am satisfied that every 
84 



398 APPENDIX. 

word in the text, whether written in regular course 
or interlined, is his, and his alone. The date, Sep- 
tember 19, 1796, was the only part on which I had a 
doubt, and of that I can only say, that being well 
acquainted with the hand-writing of Alexander Ham- 
ilton, I do not believe it was written by him. It may 
have been written by the private Secretary. Mr. 
Claypoole, however, believes it to have been in the 
hand-writing of the President himself. 

(Signed) 

W. Rawlb. 



LETTER OF CHIEF JUSTICE JAY. 399 



IV. 



liETTER FROM CHIEF JUSTICE JAY TO RICHARD 
PETERS, Esq. 

PUBLISHED IN THE MEMOIRS OF THE HISTORICAL 
SOCIETY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 

Bedford, March 29iA, 1811. 

Dear Sir: 

I have received your letter of the 14th ult., and 
also the book on Plaister of Paris, which you was so 
obliging as to send me, and for which accept my 
thanks. 

Your letter conveyed to me the hrst and only iii- 
formation I have received, that a copy of President 
Washington's Valedictory Address has been found 
among the papers of Gen. Hamilton, and in his hand- 
writing; and that a certain gentleman had also a copy 
of it, in the same hand-writing. 

This intelligence is unpleasant and unexpected. 
Had the address been one of those official papers 
which, in the course of affairs, the Secretary of the 
proper department might have prepared, and the 
President have signed, these facts would have been 
unimportant ; but it was a personal act of choice, not 
of official duty ; and it was so connected with other 
obvious considerations as that he only could with 
propriety write it. In my opinion -President Wash- 
ington must have been sensible of this propriety, and 



400 APPENDIX. 

therefore strong evidence would be necessary to make 
me believe that he violated it. Whether he did or 
did not, is a question which naturally directs our 
attention to whatever afibrds presumptive evidence 
respecting it, and leads the mind into a long train of 
correspondent reflections. I will give you a sum- 
mary of those which have occurred to me ; not be- 
cause I think them necessary to settle the point in 
question, for the sequel will show that they art? not, 
but because the occasion invites me to take the plea- 
sure of reviewing and bearing testimony to the merits 
of my departed friend. 

Is it to be presumed from these facts that Gen. 
Hamilton was the real^ and the President only the 
reputed author of that Address ? Although they coun- 
tenance such a presumption, yet I think its founda- 
tion will be found too slight and shallow to resist that 
strong and full stream of counter evidence which 
flows from the conduct and character of that great 
man ; a character not blown up into transient splen- 
dour by the breath of adulation, but which, being 
composed of his great and memorable deeds, stands, 
and will for ever stand, a glorious monument of hu- 
man excellence. 

So prone, however, is "poor human nature" to dis- 
like and depreciate the superiority of its cotempo- 
raries, that when these facts come to be generally 
known, and generally known they will be, many with 
atiected regret and hesitation will infer and hint that 
Washington had less greatness of talent, and less 
greatness of mind, than his friends and admirers 
♦ ascribe to him. Nor w^ill the number of those be few, 



LETTER OP CHIEF JUSTICE JAY. 401 

who, from personal or party inducements, will art- 
fully encourage and diligently endeavour to give cur- 
rency to such imputations. On the other hand, there 
are men of candour and judgment, and time will in- 
crease their number, who, aiming only at truth, will 
cheerfully trace and follow its footsteps, and, on find- 
ing, fondly embrace it. Urged by this laudable mo- 
tive, they will attentively examine the history of his 
life ; and in it they will meet with such numerous 
proofs of his knowledge and experience of men and 
things in general, and of our national aifairs in par- 
ticular, as to silence all doubt of his ability to con- 
ceive and express every idea in that address. A 
careful perusal of that history will convince them that 
the principles of policy which it recommends as rules 
for the conduct of others, are precisely those by which 
he regulated his own. 

There have been in the world but two systems or 
Bchools of policy, the one founded on the great prin- 
ciples of wisdom and rectitude, the other on cunning, 
and its various artifices. To the first of these be- 
longed Washington, and all the other worthies of 
every other country who ascended to the Temple of 
Honour through the Temple of Virtue. The doc- 
trines, maxims, and precepts of this school have been 
explained and inculcated by the ablest writers, ancient 
and modern. In all civilized countries they are 
known, though often neglected ; and in free states 
have always been publicly commended and taught; 
they crossed the Atlantic with our forefathers, and iu 
our days particularly, have not only engaged the time 
and attention of students, but have been constantly 
34* 2a 



402 APPENDIX. 

and eloquently displayed by able men in our senates 
and assemblies. What reason can there be that 
Washington did not understand those subjects ? If 
it be asked what these subjects comprehend or relate 
to, the answer is this — they relate to the nature and 
duties of man, to his propensities and passions, his 
virtues and vices, his habits and prejudices, his real 
and relative wants and enjoyments, his capacities for 
social and national happiness, and the means by 
which, according to time, place, and other existing 
circumstances, it is in a greater or less degree to be 
procured, preserved, and increased. From a pro- 
found investigation of these subjects, enli"-li^oiied by 
experience, result all that knowledge ami iin>sti max- 
ims and precepts of sound policy, which enable legis- 
lators and rulers to manage and govern public affairs 
wisely and justly. 

By what other means than the practical use of this 
knowledge, could Washington have been able to 
lead and govern an army hastily collected from va- 
rious parts, and who brought with them to the field 
all the license and all the habits which they had in- 
dulged at home ? Could he, by the force of orders 
and proclamations, have constrained them to render 
to him that obedience, confidence, and warm attach- 
ment which he so soon acquired, and which, through- 
out all vicissitudes and distresses, continued constant 
ftud undiminished to the last ? By what other means 
could he have been able to frustrate the designs of 
dark cabals, and the unceasing intrigues of envious 
competitors, and the arts of the opposing enemy ? 
By what other means could he have been able, in so 



LETTER OF CHIEF JUSTICE JAY. 408 

masterly a manner, to meet and manage all those per- 
plexing embarrassments which the revolutionary sub- 
stitution of a new government, — which the want of 
that power in Congress which they had not, and of 
that promptitude which no deliberative body can 
have, — which the frequent destitution and constant 
uncertainty of essential supplies, — which the incom- 
petency of individuals on whom much depended, the 
perfidy of others, and the mismanagement of many, 
could not fail to engender ? "We know, and history 
will inform posterity, that, from the first of his mili- 
tary career, he had to meet, and encounter, and sur- 
mount a rapid succession of formidable difiiculties, 
even down to the time when his country was enabled, 
by the success of their arms, to obtain the honorable 
peace which terminated the war. His high and ap- 
pointed course being then finished, he disdained the 
intimations of lawless ambition to prolong it. He 
disbanded the army under circumstances which re- 
quired no common degree of policy or virtue ; and, 
with universal admiration and plaudits, descended, 
joyfully and serenely, into the shades of retirement. 
They who ascribe all this to the guidance and pro- 
tection of Providence do well, but let them recollect 
that Providence seldom interposes in human affairs, 
but through the agency of human means. 

When at a subsequent and alarming period, the 
nation found that their afiairs had gone into contu- 
sion, and that clouds portending danger and distress 
were rising over them, in every quarter, they instituted 
under his auspices a more efficient government, and 
unanimously committed the administration of it to 



404 APPENDIX. 

him. Would they have done this without the highest 
confidence in his political talents and wisdom ? Cer- 
tainly not — no novice in navigation was ever unani- 
mously called upon to take the helm or command of 
a ship oa the point of running aground among the 
breakers. This universal confidence would have 
proved universal mistake, had it not been justified by 
the event. The unanimous opinion entertained and 
declared by a whole people in favor of any fellow- 
citizen is rarely erroneous, especially in times of alarm 
and calamity. 

To delineate the course, and enumerate the mea- 
sures which he took to arrive at success, would be to 
write a volume. The firmness and policy with which 
he overcame the obstacles placed in his way by the 
derangement of national aifairs, by the devices of do- 
mestic demagogues and of foreign agents, as well as 
by the deleterious influences of the French revolution, 
need not be particularized. Our records, and histo- 
ries, and memories, render it unnecessary. It is suffi- 
cient to say, and it can be said with truth, that his 
administration raised the nation out of confusion into 
order, out of degradation and distress into reputation 
and prosperity; it found us withering — it left us 
flourishing. 

Is it to be believed that after having thus led the 
nation out of a bewildered state, and guided them for 
many years from one degree of prosperity to another, 
he vvas not qualified, on retiring, to advise them how 
to proceed and go on ? And what but this is the 
object and the burthen of his Valedictory Address? 
He was persuaded that, as the national welfare had 



LETTER Or CHIEF JUSTICE JAY. 405 

been recovered and established, so it could only be 
preserved and prolonged by a continued and steady 
adherence to those principles of sound policy and im- 
partial justice which had invariably directed his ad^ 
ministration. 

Although the knowledge of them had been spread 
and scattered among the people, here a little, and 
there a little, yet being desirous to mark even the last 
day of his public life by some act of public utility, he 
addressed and presented them to his fellow citizens in 
points of light so clear and strong as to make deep 
impressions on the public mind. These last parental 
admonitions of this Father of his Country were grate- 
fully received and universally admired ; but the expe- 
rience of ages informs us, that it is less difficult to give 
good advice than to prevail on men to follow it. 

Such, and so obvious is the force of the preceding 
considerations, as to render doubts of the President's 
ability to give the advice contained in the address too 
absurd to have many serious advocates. But it would 
not surprise me, if certain classical gentlemen, asso- 
ciating the facts you mention with the style and fashion 
of the address, should intimate that his ability to com- 
pass it substantially in his own mind does not prove 
that he was also capable of communicating his advice in 
a paper so well written. Let these gentlemen recollect 
the classical maxim which they learned at school : 

" Scribendi recte, sapere est, et principiuin, et fons." 
The}^ may also be referred to another classical maxim, 
which teaches us that they who well understand their 
subject will be at no loss for words : 

" Verbaque provisam rem non invita sequentur." 



i06 APPENDIX. 

But his ability to wite well need not be proved by 
the application of maxims ; it is established by facts. 

We are told to judge of a tree by its fruit ; let ua 
in like manner judge of his pen by its performances. 
Few men who had so little leisure have written so 
much. His public letters alone are voluminous, and 
public opinion has done justice to their merits. Many 
of them have been published, and they who read them 
will be convinced that at the period of the address he 
had not to learn how to write well. But it may be 
remarked that the address is more highly finished 
than the letters, and so it ought to be ; that address 
was to be presented to the whole nation, and on no 
common occasion ; it was intended for the present 
and future generation ; it was to be read in this coun- 
try and in foreign countries ; and to be criticized not 
only by affectionate friends and impartial judges, but 
also by envious and malignant enemies. It was an 
address which, according as it should or should not 
correspond with his exalted character and fame, would 
either justify or impeach the prevailing opinion of his 
talents or wisdom. Who, therefore, can wonder that 
he should bestow more thoughts, and time, and pains 
on that address than a letter ? 

Although in the habit of depending ultimately on 
his own judgment, yet no man was more solicitous to 
obtain and collect light on every question and mea- 
sure on which he had to decide. He knew that au- 
thors, like parents, are not among the first to discover 
imperfections in their ofi:spring, and that considera- 
tion would naturally induce him to imitate the exam- 
ple of those ancient and modern writers (among whom 



LETTER OP CHIEF JUSTICE JAY. 407 

were statesmen, generals, and even men of consular 
and rojal dignity), who submitted their compositiona 
to the judgment of their friends before they put the 
last hand to them. Those friends would make notes 
of whatever defects they observed in the draft, and of 
the correspondent amendments which they deemed 
proper. If they found that the arrangement would 
be improved, they would advise certain transpositions 
— if the connexion between any of the relative parts 
was obscure, they would make it more apparent — if 
a conclusion had better be left to implication than 
expressed, they would strike it out, and so vice vers^, 
if an additional remark or allusion would give force 
or light to a sentiment or proposition they would pro- 
pose it — where a sentence was too long, they would 
divide it — they would correct redundancies, change 
words less apt for words more apt, &c. &c. To correct 
a composition in this way, is to do a friendly office, 
but to prepare a new one, and ofier it to the author 
as a substitute for his own, would deserve a different 
appellation. 

Among those to whose judgment and candour Pre- 
sident Washington would commit such an interesting 
and delicate task, where is the man to be found who 
would have the hardihood to say to him in substance, 
tliough in terms ever so nice and courtly — " Sir, I 
have examined and considered your draft of an ad- 
dress — it will not do — it is really good for nothing, 
but, Sir, I have taken the trouble to write a proper 
one for j'ou, and I now make a present of it. I ad- 
vise you to adopt it, and to pass it on the world as 
your own ; the cheat w^ill never be discovered, for you 



408 APPENDIX. 

may depend on my secrecy. Sir, I have inserted i« 
it a paragraph that will give the public a good opinion 
of your modesty. I will read it to you ; it is in these 
words : 

"'In the discharge of this trust I will only say, that 
I have with good intentions contributed towards the 
organization and administration of the government, 
the best exertions of which a very fallible judgment 
was capable. Not unconscious in the outset of the 
inferiority of my qualifications, experience, in my ovv n 
eyes, perhaps still more in the eyes of others^ has 
strengthened the motives to diffidence of myself.' " 

If it be possible to find a man among those whom 
he esteemed, capable of ofibring to him such a pre- 
sent, it is impossible to believe that President Wash- 
ington was the man to whom such a present would 
have been acceptable. They who knew President 
Washington, and his various endowments, qualifica- 
tions, and virtues, know that (aggregately considered) 
they formed a tout ensemble which has rarely been 
equalled, and perhaps never excelled. 

Thus much for presumptive evidence, I will now 
turn your attention to some that is direct. 

The history (if it may be so called) of the address 
18 not unknown to me ; but as I came to the know- 
ledge of it under implied confidence, I doubted, when 
I first received your letter, whether I ought to dis- 
close it. On more mature reflection I became con- 
vinced that if President Washington were now alive, 
and informed of the facts in question, he would no« 
only authorise, but also desire me to reduce it to 
writing; that, when necessary, it might be used to 



LETTER OF CHIEF JUSTICE JAY. 409 

invalidate the imputations to which those facts give 
color. 

This consideration terminated mj doubts. I do 
not think that a disclosure is necessary at this mo- 
ment, but I fear such a moment will arrive. Whe- 
ther I shall then be alive, or in a capacity to give tes- 
timony, is so uncertain, that in order to avoid the risk 
of either, I shall now reduce it to writing, and commit 
it to your care and discretion. "Debene esse," as 
the lawyers say. 

Some time before the address appeared, Colonel 
(afterwards General) Hamilton informed me that he 
had received a letter from President Washington, and 
with it the draft of a Farewell Address which the 
President had prepared, and on which he requested 
our opinion. He then proposed to fix on a day for 
an interview at my house on the subject. A day was 
accordingly appointed, and on that day Col. Hamil- 
ton attended. He observed to me in words to this 
effect, that after having read and examined the draft, 
it appeared to him to be susceptible of improvement. 
That he thought the easiest and best way was to leave 
the draft untouched, and in its fair state; and to write 
the whole over with such amendments, alterations and 
corrections, as he thought were advisable, and that 
he had done so ; he then proposed to read it, and we 
proceeded deliberately to discuss and consider it, para- 
graph by paragraph, until the whole met with our 
mutual approbation. Some amendments were made 
during the interview, but none of much importance. 

Although this business had not been hastily de- 
spatched, yet aware of the consequences of sach a 
Bo 



410 APPENDIX. 

paper, I suggested the giving it a further critical exa- 
mination ; but he declined it, sajdng, he was pressed 
for time, and was anxious to return the draft to the 
President without delay. 

It afterwards occurred to me that a certain propo- 
sition was expressed in terras too general and unqua- 
lified ; and I hinted it in a letter to the President. 
As the business took the course above mentioned, a 
recurrence to the draft was unnecessary, and it was 
not read. There was this advantage in the course 
pursued; the President's draft remained (as delicacy 
required) fair and not obscured by interlineations, &c. 
By comparing it with the paper sent with it, he would 
immediately observe the particular emendations and 
corrections, that were proposed, and would find them 
standing in their intended places. Hence he was 
enabled to review, and to decide on the whole matter, 
with much greater clearness and facility, than if he 
had received them in separate and detached notes, 
and with detailed references to the pages and lines 
where they were advised to be introduced. 

With great esteem and regard, I am, dear Sir, your 
obed't servant, 

John Jay. 

KiCHARD PeTEBS, EsQ. 



EXTRACT. 411 



V. 



The following paper is taken from the ""Writings 
of Washington," edited by Jared Sparks, Esq., now 
President of Harvard University. It forms Appendix 
No. 3 of the 12th volume of that work. 

WASHINGTON'S FAREWELL ADDRESS. 

The curiosity, which has been expressed respect- 
ing the authorship of the Farewell Address, would 
seem to require some notice of the subject in this 
work; although the question, as to the manner in 
which that address originated, is one of small mo- 
ment, since its real importance consists in its being 
known to contain the sentiments of Washington, 
uttered on a solemn occasion, and designed for the 
benefit of his countrymen. Whether every idea em- 
bodied in it arose spontaneously from his own mind, 
or whether every word was first traced by his pen, 
or whether he acted as every wise man would natu- 
rally act under the same circumstances, and sought 
counsel from other sources claiming respect and 
confidence, or in what degree he pursued either or 
all of these methods, are points so unimportant, 
compared with the object and matter of the whole, 
as to be scarcely worth considering. Nor is it in- 
tended here to do anything more than to state a 



412 APPENDIX. 

few facts, leaving tlie reader to draw his own in- 
t'erences. 

When Washington accepted the Presidency, to 
which he had been called by the unanimous voice 
of the people, it was not his intention to remain in 
the office more than one term. Towards the close 
of that term, he wrote the following letter to Mr. 
Madison, whom he had been in the habit of fre- 
quently consulting, and of whose ability, integrity, 
and practical wisdom, he entertained the highest 
opinion. 

PRESIDENT WASHINGTON TO JAMES MADISON. 

"Mount Vernon, 20 May, 1792. 

"My DEAR Sir: 

"As there is a possibility, if not a probability, that 
I shall not see you on your return home; or, if I 
should see you, it may be on the road, and under 
circumstances, which may prevent my speaking to 
you on the subject we last conversed upon, I take the 
liberty of committing to paper the following thoughts 
and requests. 

"I have not been unmindful of the sentiments 
expressed by you in the conversations just alluded 
to. On the contrary, I have again and again re- 
volved them with thoughtful anxiety, but without 
being able to dispose my mind to a longer continua- 
tion in the office I have now the honor to hold. 1 
therefore still look forward with the fondest and 
most ardent wishes to spend the remainder of my 
days, which I cannot expect to be long, in ease and 
tranquillity. 



■WASHINGTON TO MADISON. 415 

"Nothing but a conviction, that my declining the 
chair of government, if it should be the desire of 
the people to continue me in it, would involve the 
country in serious disputes respecting the chief ma- 
gistrate, and the disagreeable consequences vv^hich 
might result therefrom in the floating and divided 
opinions, which seem to prevail at present, could in 
anywise induce me to relinquish the determination 1 
have formed ; and of this I do not see how any evi- 
dence can be obtained previous to the election. My 
vanitj', I am sure, is not of the cast to allow me to 
view the subject in this light. 

" Under these impressions, then, permit me to 
reiterate the request I made to you at our last meet- 
ing, namely, to think of the proper time and the 
best mode of announcing the intention, and that you 
would prepare the latter. In revolving this subject 
myself, my judgment has always been embarrassed. 
On the one hand, a previous declaration to retire, 
not only carries with it the appearance of vanity and 
self-importance, but it may be construed into a ma- 
noeuvre to be invited to remain ; and on the other 
hand, to say nothing implies consent, or at any 
rate would leave the matter in doubt; and to de- 
cline afterwards might be deemed as bad, and un- 
candid. 

"I would fain carry my request to you farther 
than is asked above, although I am sensible that 
your compliance with it must add to your tiv>uble. 
But, as the recess may afford you leisure, and I flat- 
ter myself you have dispositions to oblige me, I will, 
without apology, desire, if the measure in itself 
35* 



414 APPENDIX. 

should strike you as proper, or likely to produce 
public good or private honor, that you would turn 
your thoughts to a Valedictory Address from me to 
the public, expressing in plain and modest terms, 
that, having been honored with the presidential 
chair, and to the best of my abilities contributed to 
the organization and administration of the govern- 
ment ; that, having arrived at a period of life, when 
the private walks of it in the shades of retirement 
become necessary, and will be most pleasing to me; 
(and as the spirit of the government may render a 
rotation in the elective officers of it more congenial 
with the ideas [the people have] of liberty and 
safety) that I take my leave of them as a public man, 
and, in bidding them adieu, retaining no other con- 
cern than such as will arise from fervent wishes for 
the prosperity of my country, I take the liberty at 
my departure from civil [life], as I formerly did at 
my military exit, to invoke a continuation of the 
blessings of Providence upon it, and upon all those who 
are the supporters of its interests, and the promoters 
of harmony, order, and good government. 

"That, to impress these things, it might among 
other topics be observed, that we are all the children 
of the same country, a country great and rich in 
itself, capable, and promising to be as prosperous 
and happy as any which the annals of history have 
ever brought to ou * view ; that our interest, however 
diversified in local and smaller matters, is the same 
in all the great and essential concerns of the nation ; 
that the extent of our country, the diversity of our 
climate and soil, and the various productions of the 



WASHINGTON TO MADISON. 41& 

Btates consequent of both, are such as to make one 
part not only convenient, but perhaps indispensably 
necessary to the other part, and may render the 
whole, at no distant period, one of the most inde- 
pendent [nations] in the world ; that the established 
government, being the work of our own hands, with 
the seeds of amendment engrafted in the constitu- 
tion, may, by wisdom, good dispositions, and mutual 
allowances, aided by experience, bring it as near to 
perfection, as any human institution ever approxi- 
mated, and therefore the only strife among us ought 
to be, who should be foremost in facilitating and 
finally accomplishing such great and desirable ob- 
jects, by giving every possible support and cement 
to the Union ; that, however necessary it may be to 
keep a watchful eye over public servants and public 
measures, yet there ought to be limits to it, for suspi- 
cions unfounded and jealousies too lively are irritating 
to honest feelings, and oftentimes are productive of 
more evil than good. 

" To enumerate the various subjects, which might 
be introduced into such an address, would require 
thought, and to mention them to you would be un- 
necessary, as your own judgment will comprehend 
all that will be proper. Whether to touch specifi- 
cally any of the exceptionable parts of the constitu- 
tion may be doubted. All I shall add, therefore, at 
present, is to beg the favor of you to consider, first, 
the propriety of such an address; secondly, if ap- 
proved, the several matters which ought to be con- 
tained in it ; thirdly, the time it should appear, that 



416 APPENDIX. 

is, whether at the declaration of my intention tc 
withdraw from the service of the public, or to let it 
be the closing act of my administration, which will 
end with the next session of Congress ; the probabi 
lity being, that that body will continue sitting until 
March, when the House of Representatives will also 
dissolve. 

" Though I do not wish to hurry you (the case 
not pressing) in the execution of either of the pub- 
lications before mentioned, yet I should be glad to 
hear from you generally on both, and to receive them 
in time, if you should not come to Philadelphia 
before the session commences, in the form they are 
finally to take. I beg leave to draw your attention, 
also, to such things as you shall conceive fit sub- 
jects for communication on that occasion ; and, 
noting them as they occur, that you would be so 
good as to furnish me with them in time to be pre- 
pared, and engrafted with others, for the opening of 
the session. 

" With very sincere and affectionate regards, I am 
ever yours, 

"George "Washington." 

A month after this letter was written, Mr. Madi- 
son answered it, and communicated at the same 
time a draft of a valedictory address, as above re- 
q aested. 



MADISON TO WASHINaTON. 417 

JAMES MADISON TO PRESIDENT WASHINGTON. 

"Orange, 20 June, 1792. 
"Dear Sir: 

" Haviog been left to myself for some days past, I 
have made use of the opportunity for bestowing on 
your letter of the 20th ultimo, handed me on the 
road, the attention which its important contents 
claimed. The questions, which it presents for con- 
sideration, are, first, at what time a notification of 
your purpose to retire will be most convenient; 
secondly, what mode will be most eligible ; thirdly, 
whether a valedictory address will be proper and ad- 
visable ; fourthly, if both, whether it would be more 
properly annexed to the notification, or postponed to 
your actual retirement. 

" 1. The answer to the first question involves two 
points, first, the expediency of delaying the notifica- 
tion ; secondly, the propriety of making it before 
the choice of electors takes place, that the people 
may make their choice with an eye to the ciroum- 
stances under which the trust is to be executed. 
On the first point, the reasons for as much delay as 
possible are too obvious to need recital. The second, 
depending on the times fixed in the several States, 
which must be within thirty-four days preceding the 
first Wednesday in December, requires that the noti- 
fication should be in time to pervade every part of 
the Union by the beginning of November. Allow- 
ing six weeks for this purpose, the middle of Septeni- 

2b 



418 APPENDIX. 

ber, or perhaps a little earlier, would seem a conve- 
nient date for the act. 

" 2. With regard to the mode, none better occurs 
than a simple publication in the newspapers. If it 
were proper to address it through the medium of the 
general legislature, there will be no opportunit}'. 
Nor does the change of situation seem to admit a 
recurrence to the State governments, which were the 
channels used for the former valedictory address.' 
A direct address to the people, who are your only 
constituents, can be made, I think, most properly 
through the.independent channel of the press, through 
which they are as a constituent body usually ad- 
dressed. 

" 3. On the third question, I think there can be 
no doubt, that such an address is rendered 'proper in 
itself, by the peculiarity and importance of the cir- 
cumstances, which mark your situation ; and advisa- 
ble, by the salutary and operative lessons of which it 
may be made the vehicle. The precedent, at your 
military exit, might also subject an omission now to 
conjectures and interpretations, which it would not 
be well to leave room for. 

"4. The remaining question is less easily decided. 
Advantages and objections lie on both sides of the 
alternative. The occasion, on which you are necea- 
%arily addressing the people, evidently introduces 
most easily and most delicately any voluntary obser- 
vations that are meditated. In another view, a fare- 

* General Washington's Address to the Governors of the States 
on disbanding the armj. 



MADISON TO WASHINGTON. 419 

well address, before the final moment of departure, 
is liable to the appearance of being premature and 
awkward. On the opposite side of the alternative, 
however, a postponement will beget a dryness, and 
an abridgment in the first address, little correspond- 
ing with the feelings, which the occasion would 
naturally produce, both in the author and the ob- 
jects ; and, though not liable to the above objec- 
tion, would require a resumption of the subject appa- 
rently more forced, and on which, the impressions 
having been anticipated and familiarized, and the 
public mind diverted perhaps to other scenes, a 
second address would be received with less sensibi- 
lity and effect, than if incorporated with the impres- 
sions incident to the original one. It is possible, 
too, that, previous to the close of the terra, circum- 
stances might intervene in relation to public affairs, 
or the succession to the presidency, which would be 
more embarrassing, if existing at the time of a vale- 
dictory appeal to the ' public, than if subsequent to 
that delicate measure. 

"On the whole, my judgment leans to the pro- 
priety of blending together the notifying and vale- 
dictory addresses ; and the more so, as the crisis, 
which Will terminate your public career, may still 
afford ai opportunity, if any intermediate contin- 
gency sh> lid call for a supplement to your farewell 
observations. But as more correct views of the sub- 
ject may produce a different result in your mind, I 
have endeavored to fit the draft enclosed to either 
determination. You will readily observe, that, in 
executing it, I have aimed at that plainness and 



420 APPENDIX. 

modesty of language, which you had in view, and 
which indeed are so peculiarly becoming the charac- 
ter and the occasion ; and that I have had little more 
to do, as to the matter, than to follow the just and 
comprehensive outline, which you had sketched. I 
flatter myself, however, that, in every thing which 
has depended on me, much improvement will bo 
made, before so interesting a paper shall have taken 
its last form. 

"Having thus, Sir, complied with your wishes, by 
proceeding on a supposition that the idea of retiring 
from public life is to be carried into execution, I 
must now gratify my own by hoping, that a recon- 
sideration of the measure, in all its circumstances and 
consequences, will have produced an acquiescence in 
one more sacrifice, severe as it may be, to the desires 
and interests of your country. I forbear to enter into 
the arguments, which in my view plead for it, because 
it would be only repeating what I have already taken 
the liberty of fully explaining. But I could not con- 
clude such a letter as the present without a repetition 
of my anxious wishes and hopes, that oar country 
may not, in this important conjuncture, be deprived 
of the inestimable advantage of having you at the 
head of its councils. 

" With every sentiment of respect and affectionate 
attachment, I am, dear Sir, your most obedient friend 
and servant, 

"James Madison." 



MR. Madison's draft. 421 



MR. MADISON S DRAFT. 

"The period, which will close the appointment 
with which my fellow-citizena have honored me, 
being not very distant, and the time actually arrived 
at which their thoughts must be designating the citi- 
zen who is to administer the executive government 
of the United States during the ensuing term, it may 
be requisite to a more distinct expression of the pub- 
lic voice, that I should apprize such of my fellow- 
citizens as may retain their partiality towards me, 
that I am not to be numbered among those out of 
whom a choice is to be made. 

"I beg them to be assured that the resolution, 
which dictates this intimation, has not been taken 
without the strictest regard to the relation, which aa 
a dutiful citizen I bear to my country; and that, in 
withdrawing that tender of my service, which silence 
in my situation might imply, I am not influenced by 
the smallest deficiency of zeal for its future interests, 
or of grateful respect for its past kindness ; but by 
the fullest persuasion that such a step is compatible 
with both. 

"The impressions, under which I entered on the 
present arduous trust, were explained on the proper 
occasion. In discharge of this trust, I can only say, 
that I contributed towards the organization and ad- 
ministration of the government the best exertions of 
which a very fallible judgment was capable. For 
any errors, which may have flowed from this source, 
S6 



422 APPENDIX. 

I feel all the regret which an anxiety for the public 
good can excite; not without the double consolation, 
however, arising from a consciousness of their being 
involuntary, and an experience of the candour which 
will interpret them. 

"If there were any circumstances, which could 
give value to my inferior qualifications for the trust, 
these circumstances must have been temporary. In 
this light was the undertaking viewed when I ven- 
tured upon it. Being moreover still farther advanced 
in the decline of life, I am every day more sensible, 
that the increasing weight of years renders the pri- 
vate walks of it, in the shade of retirement, as neces- 
sary as they will be acceptable to me. 

"May I be allowed to add, that it will be among 
the highest as well as purest enjoyments that can 
sweeten the remnant of my days, to partake in a pri- 
vate station, in the midst of my fellow-citizens, of that 
benign influence of good laws under a free govern- 
ment, which has been the ultimate object of all our 
wishes, and in which I confide as the happy reward 
of our cares and labors? May I be allowed further 
to add, as a consideration far more important, that 
an earlj^ example of rotation in an office of so high 
and delicate a nature may equally accord with the 
republican spirit of our constitution, and the ideas of 
liberty and safety entertained by the people. 

" [If a farewell address is to be added at the expi- 
ration of the term, the following paragraph may con- 
clude the present.] 

"Tinder these circumstances, a return to my pri- 
vate station, according to the purpose with which I 



MR. MADISON'S DRAFT. 423 

quitted it, is the part which duty as well as inclina- 
tion assigns me. In executing it, I shall carry with 
me every tender recollection, which gratitude to my 
fellow-citizens can awaken ; and a sensibility to the 
permanent happiness of my country, which will ren- 
der it the object of my increasing vows and most fer 
vent supplications. 

" [Should no further address be intended, the pre- 
ceding clause may be omitted and the present address 
proceed as follows.] 

" In contemplating the moment at which the cur- 
tain is to drop for ever on the public scenes of my 
life, my seiisations anticipate and do not permit me 
to suspend, the deep acknowledgments required by 
that debt of gratitude, which I owe to my beloved 
country for the many honors it has conferred upon 
me, for the distinguished confidence it has reposed 
in me, and for the opportunities I have thus en- 
joyed, of testifying my inviolable attachment by the 
most steadfast services, which my faculties could 
render. 

" All the returns I have now to make will be in 
those vows, which I shall carry with me to my retire- 
ment and to my grave, that Heaven may continue to 
favor the people of the United States with the 
choicest tokens of its beneficence: that their union 
and brotherly affection may be perpetual ; that the 
tree constitution, which is the work of their own 
hands, may be sacredly maintained; that its admin- 
istration in every department may be stamped with 
wisdom and with virtue ; and that this character may 
be insured to it by that watchfulness over public ser- 



424 APPENDIX 

vauts iand public measures, which on one hand will be 
necessary to prevent or correct a degeneracy, and 
that forbearance, on the other, from unfounded or 
indiscriminate jealousies, which would deprive the 
public of the best services, by depriving a conscious 
integrity of one of the noblest incitements to perform 
them ; that, in fine, the happiness of the people of 
America, under the auspices of liberty, may be made 
complete, by so careful a preservation and so prudent 
a use of this blessing, as will acquire them the glo- 
rious satisfaction of recommending it to the affection, 
the praise, and the adoption of every nation, which is 
yet a stranger to it. 

"And may we not dwell with well-grounded 
hopes on this flattering prospect, when we reflect on 
the many ties by which the people of America are 
bound together, and the many proofs they have given 
of an enlightened judgment and a magnanimous 
patriotism ? 

" We may all be considered as the children of one 
common country. We have all been embarked io 
one common cause. We have all had our share in 
common sufferings and common successes. The por- 
tion of the earth, allotted for the theatre of our for- 
tunes, fulfils our most sanguine desires. All ita 
essential interests are the same ; while the diversities 
arising from climate, from soil, and from other local 
and lesser peculiarities, will naturally form a mutual 
relation of the parts, that may give to the wliole a 
more entire independence, than has perhaps fallen to 
the lot of any other nation. 

'* To confirm these motives to an affectionate and 



MR. MADISON'S DRAFT. 426 

permanent union, and to secure the great objects of 
it, we have established a common government, which, 
being free in its principles, being founded in our 
own choice, being intended as the guardian of our 
common rights, and the patron of our common inte- 
rests, and wisely containing within itself a provision 
for its own amendment, as experience may point out 
its errors, seems to promise everything that can be 
expected from such an institution ; and, if supported 
by wise counsels, by virtuous conduct, and by mu- 
tual and friendly allowances, must approach as near 
to perfection as any human work can aspire, and 
nearer than any which the annals of mankind have 
recorded. 

"With these wishes and hopes I shall make my 
exit from civil life; and I have taken the same liberty 
of expressing them, which I formerly used in offering 
the sentiments which were suggested by my exit from 
military life. 

"If, in either instance, I have presumed more than 
I ought, on the indulgence of my fellow-citizens, they 
will be too generous to ascribe it to any other cause, 
than the extreme solicitude which I am bound to 
feel, and which I can never cease to feel, for their 
.Hberty, their prosperity, and their happiness." 

The state of public affairs, and the loud call of his 
fellow-citizens from every part of the Union, pre- 
vailed on Washington to yield to a second choice, 
and remain in the presideucy another term of four 
years. Hence no use was made of the above paper, 
lie firmly resolved, however, in any event, to retir» 



426 APPENDIX. 

from puolic life at the end of this second period; and, 
as the time approached, he began to revolve in his 
mind an address to the people, which should comma 
nicate his determination, and convey to them such 
sentiments or advice, as the occasion might properly 
call forth, or as his long experience and services 
authorized him to give. There is proof, that the 
subject occupied his thoughts nearly a year before 
his term of office expired. In the mean time, the 
spirit of party, that bane of the private affections as 
vi^ell as of public concord, caused him to be estranged 
personally and politically in some degree from Mr. 
Madison, and to seek other counsellors. 

Among these, none possessed a higher place in his 
confidence than Hamilton ; of the talents, patriotism, 
honor, and honesty of none had he a more thorough 
conviction, and for none a more profound respect. A 
colossal pillar of his administration, Hamilton had 
stood by him in every hour of trial, equally firm and 
true in his friendship, and powerful in his support. 
To whom could Washington more safely apply for 
the fruits of a wise and disciplined mind? From 
whom could he hope for better counsel, or a more 
sacred regard to so confidential a trust ? 

The following note from Hamilton to Washington 
was probably the first written communication that 
passed between them on the subject. 

''New York, May 10th, 1796. — Sir; When last in 
Philadelphia you mentioned to me your wish, that J 
shciuld re-dress a certain paper, which you had pre- 
pared. As it is important, that a thing of this kind 



HINTS, OR HEADS OF TOPICS. 427 

should be done with great care, and much at leisure, 
touched and retouched, I submit a wish, that, as soon 
as you have given it the body you mean it to have, it 
may be sent to me." 

This note is dated more than four months before 
the Farewell Address was published, and it appears 
that a draft of some sort had already been "prepared" 
by Washington. It also appears, that Hamilton had 
been invited, and was well disposed, to lend his assist- 
ance in giving it completeness and finish. 

"What were the contents of the draft here alluded 
to, or whether it was the one afterwards sent to Ham- 
ilton, there are now no means of ascertaining. It is 
certain, however, that it was Washington's original 
idea to embody in the address the substance and the 
form of Mr. Madison's draft, and to make such addi- 
tions as events and the change of circumstances 
seemed to require. A paper of this description has 
been preserved, in which is first inserted Mr. Madi- 
sqn's draft, and then a series of memoranda, or loose 
hints, evidently designed to be wrought into the ad- 
dress. These are here printed as transcribed from 
the original manuscript. 

HINTS, OR HEADS OF TOPICS. 

"Had the situation of our public affairs continued 
to w^ear the same aspect they assumed at the time 
the foregoing address was drawn, I should not have 
taken the liberty of troubling you, my fellow-citizens, 
with any new sentiment, or with a repetition more iu 
detail of those, which are therein contained ; but con- 



428 APPENDIX. 

siderable changes having taken place, both at homo 
and abroad, I shall ask your indulgence while I ex- 
press, with more lively sensibility, the following most 
ardent wishes of my heart. 

"That party disputes among all tbe friends and 
lovers of their country may subside, or, as the wisdom 
of Providence has ordained that men on the same sub- 
jects shall not always think alike, that charity and be- 
nevolence, when they happen to differ, may so far shed 
their benign influence, as to banish those invectives, 
which proceed from illiberal prejudices and jealousy. 

" That, as the All-wise Dispenser of human bless- 
ings has favored no nation of the earth with more 
abundant and substantial means of happiness than 
United America, we may not be so ungrateful to our 
Creator, so wanting to ourselves, and so regardless of 
posterity, as to dash the cup of beneficence, which is 
thus bountifully offered to our acceptance. 

" That we may fulfil with the greatest exactitude all 
our engagements, foreign and domestic, to the utmost 
of our abilities, whensoever and in whatsoever man- 
ner they are pledged; for in public, as in private life, 
I am persuaded that honesty will for ever be found 
to be the best policy. 

" That we may avoid connecting ourselves with the 
politics of any nation, farther than shall be found ne- 
cessary to regulate our own trade, in order that com- 
merce may be placed upon a stable footing, our mer- 
chants know their rights, and the government the 
ground on which those rights are to be supported. 

" That every citizen would take pride in the name 
of an American, and act as if he felt the importance 



HINTS, on HEADS OF TOPICS. 429 

of the character, by considering, that we ourselves 
are now a distinct nation, the dignity of which will be 
absorbed, if not annihilated, if we enlist ourselves, far- 
ther than our obligations may require, under the ban- 
ners of any other nation whatsoever. And, moreover, 
that we should guard against the intrigues of any and 
every foreign nation, who shall endeavor to inter- 
mingle, however covertly and indirectly, in the internal 
concerns of our country, or who shall attempt to pre- 
scribe rules for our policy with any other power, if 
there be no infraction of our engagements with them- 
selves, as one of the greatest evils that can befall us 
as a people ; for, whatever may be their professions, 
be assured, fellow-citizens, and the event will, as it 
always has, invariably prove, that nations as well as 
individuals act for their own benefit, and not for the 
benefit of others, unless both interests happen to be 
assimilated, and when that is the case there requires 
no contract to bind them together; that all their in- 
terferences are calculated to promote the former; and, 
in proportion as they succeed, will render us less in- 
dependent. In a word, nothing is more certain, than 
that, if we receive favors, we must grant favors; and 
it is not easy to decide beforehand under such circum- 
stances as we are, on which side the balance will ulti- 
mately preponderate; but easy indeed is it to foresee, 
that it may involve us in disputes, and finally in war, 
to fulfil political alliances. Whereas, if there be no 
engagements on our part, we shall be unembarrassed, 
and at liberty at all times to act from circumstances, 
and the dictates of justice, sound policy, and oui 
essential interests. 



430 APPENDIX. 

" That we may be always prepared for war, but 
never unsheath the sword except in self-defence, so 
long as justice, and our essential rights, and national 
respectability, can be preserved without it; for with- 
out the gift of prophec}' it may safely be pronounced, 
that, if this country can remain in peace twenty years 
longer (and I devoutly pray, that it may do so to the 
end of time), such, in all probability, will be its popu- 
lation, riches, and resources, when combined with itp 
peculiarly happy and remote situation from the othei 
quarters of the globe, as to bid defiance, in a jusi 
cause, to any earthly power whatsoever. 

" That, whensoever and so long as we profess to be 
neutral, our public conduct, whatever our private 
affections may be, may accord therewith ; without 
suffering partialities on one hand, or prejudices on 
the other, to control our actions. A contrary practice 
is not only incompatible with our declarations, but is 
pregnant with mischief, embarrassing to the adminis- 
tration, tending to divide us into parties, and ulti- 
mately productive of all those evils and horrors, which 
proceed from faction. 

" That our Union may be as lasting as time; for, 
while we are encircled in one band, we shall possess 
the strength of a giant, and there will be none who 
can make us afraid. Divide, and we shall become 
weak, a prey to foreign intrigues and internal discord, 
and shall be as miserable and contemptible, as we are 
now enviable and happy. 

" That the several departments of government may 
be preserved in their utmost constitutional purity, 
without any attempt of one to encroach on the rights 



HINTS, OR HEADS OF TOPICS. 431 

or privileges of another; that the general and State 
governments may move in their proper orbits ; and 
that the authorities of our own constitution may be 
respected by ourselves, as the most certain means of 
having them respected by foreigners. 

" In expressing these sentiments it will readily be 
perceived, that I can have no other view now, what- 
ever malevolence might have ascribed to it before, 
than such as results from a perfect conviction of the 
utility of the measure. If public servants, in the ex- 
ercise of their official duties, are found incompetent, 
or pursuing wrong courses, discontinue them. If 
they are guilty of mal-practices in office, let them be 
more exemplarily punished. In both cases, the con- 
stitution and laws have made provision; but^ do not 
withdraw your confidence from them, the best incen- 
tive to a faithful discharge of their duty, without just 
cause ; nor infer, because measures of a complicated 
nature, which time, opportunity, and close investiga- 
tion alone can penetrate, for these reasons are not 
easily comprehended by those, who do not possess 
the means, that it necessarily follows they must be 
wrong. This would not only be doing injustice to 
your trustees, but be counteracting your own essen- 
tial interests, rendering those trustees, if not con- 
temptible in the eyes of the world, little better at 
least than ciphers in the administration of the gov- 
ernment, and the constitution of your own choosing 
would reproach you for such conduct." 

"Whether these hints were sent to Hamilton, as here 
■ written, or to what extent they were previously en 



432 APPENDIX. 

larged and arranged, cannot now be told. It will be 
seen, however, that they include nearly all the elements 
of the principal points of the address, as it was finally 
published. After the draft had been transmitted to 
Hamilton, he discouraged the idea of incorporating 
Mr. Madison's draft, in its distinct form, on account 
of the apparent incongruity of the thing, and because 
he thought some of its sentiments not suited to the 
objects proposed in this last address. He accordingly 
sketched twp plans, or drafts, one on the basis of an 
incorporation, the other on that of an original form, 
submitting it to the judgment of Washington to de- 
cide which was the preferable method. He chose the 
latter. Several letters passed between them. Sug- 
gestions were made on both sides, some of which were 
approved and adopted, others disapproved and rejected. 
The drafts were sent back and forth from the one to 
the other. The work was nearly four months in 
hand ; and was executed with a deliberation and 
solicitude, which prove the deep sense that each en- 
tertained of its importance, and of the advanta^'xs to 
be derived from it to the country. 






9 




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